Garuti G, Bandiera G, Cattaruzza MS, Gelati L, Osborn JF, Toscani S, Confalonieri M, Lusuardi M.
Monaldi Arch Chest Dis. 2010 Dec;73(4):145-51
Prospective observational study investigating effect of CPAP prior to admission to emergency room, on reduction of endotracheal intubation, in-hospital mortality and length of stay. Results showed that mortality was reduced when helmet CPAP was applied both in the pre-hospital and in-hospital settings. Authors conclude that using CPAP by trained nurses is 'safe, reduces mortality and hospital length of stay'.
Link to abstract.
Squadrone V, Massaia M, Bruno B, Marmont F, Falda M, Bagna C, Bertone S, Filippini C, Slutsky AS, Vitolo U, Boccadoro M, Ranieri VM. Intensive Care Med. 2010 Oct; 36(10):1666-74
Study to determine effectiveness of early CPAP delivered in the ward to prevent occurrence of ALI requiring intensive care admission for mechanical ventilation. Primary outcomes measured were need of mechanical ventilation and intubation rate among patients requiring ICU admission. Authors conclude early CPAP in this scenario prevents 'evolution to acute lung injury'.
Link to abstract.
Cosentini R, Brambilla AM, Aliberti S, Bignamini A, Nava S, Maffei A, Martinotti R, Tarsia P, Monzani V, Pelosi P.
Chest. 2010 Jul;138(1):114-20
Multi-centre, randomised controlled trial. 47 patients admitted to ED with moderate hypoxemic acute respiratory failure (ARF) due to community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) were split into helmet CPAP or standard oxygen therapy groups. Primary end point was time to reach PaO2/FiO2 ratio > 315. The proportion of patients who reached the primary end point was also recorded. Authors conclude that CPAP delivered by helmet rapidly improves oxygenation in this scenario.
Link to abstract.