Invasive vs. noninvasive support in severe asthma

To define contemporary trends in the use of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in the treatment of children with asthma, we performed a serial cross-sectional analysis using data from the Pediatric Health Information System. IMV use is at historic lows, and NIV has replaced it as the primary mechanical support mode for asthma. However, there is considerable variability in NIV use. NIV’s precise contribution to the cost and quality of care remains to be determined. SOURCE: Pediatrics