Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Pressure Support Ventilator with Volume Control Mode
Technical term: E0464 - Pressure support ventilator with volume control mode, may include pressure control mode, used with non-invasive interface (e.g., mask)

Summary

A Pressure Support Ventilator (PSV) with Volume Control Mode is a medical device designed to assist patients with breathing. It provides ventilatory support by delivering a predetermined volume of air to the lungs and can be used in combination with a non-invasive interface like a mask. This mode may also include pressure control to ensure optimal respiratory assistance.

Purpose

This ventilator is used for patients who have difficulty breathing on their own. It helps ensure that they receive a consistent volume of air with each breath, improving oxygenation and reducing the work of breathing.

Indications

The PSV is typically indicated for:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Respiratory failure
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Neuromuscular disorders affecting respiratory muscles
• Acute respiratory distress

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo a respiratory assessment to determine the necessity and settings for the ventilator.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are generally required unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is fitted with a non-invasive interface, such as a nasal or full-face mask.
2. The ventilator is set up with the appropriate volume control settings, possibly incorporating pressure control.
3. The machine delivers a specified volume of air with each breath, while monitoring and adjusting pressure as needed.
4. The entire process is non-invasive, eliminating the need for surgical procedures.

Duration

The duration of use can vary widely depending on the patient's condition and response to treatment; it can range from several hours to being a long-term daily therapy.

Setting

This procedure can be performed in various settings:

• Hospital
• Outpatient clinic
• Home healthcare environment

Personnel

• Respiratory therapists
• Nurses
• Physicians (primarily pulmonologists)
• Technicians specialized in medical equipment

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Skin irritation or pressure sores from the mask
• Dryness of the airways
• Discomfort or anxiety

Rare Complications:

• Barotrauma (lung injury due to high pressure)
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)

Benefits

• Enhanced breathing and oxygenation
• Decreased work of breathing
• Improvement in symptoms related to respiratory distress
• Possible reduction in hospital admissions for chronic respiratory conditions

Recovery

• Patients may need to gradually acclimate to the non-invasive ventilator.
• Regular follow-up appointments to adjust settings and monitor progress.
• Minimal recovery time required as the procedure is non-invasive.

Alternatives

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
• Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP)

• Invasive mechanical ventilation (if non-invasive options are insufficient)

  Pros of Alternatives:

• May be suited for different levels of respiratory support
• Variations in pressure settings tailored to specific conditions

Cons of Alternatives:

• CPAP/BiPAP may not provide adequate volume control
• Invasive ventilation involves higher risk and is less comfortable

Patient Experience

• Patients may initially feel discomfort while adjusting to the mask and ventilator settings.
• Supportive care, including settings adjustments and reassurance, can enhance comfort.
• Proper mask fitting and humidification can improve the overall experience.
• Most patients report significant relief in breathing difficulty once acclimated.