Negative Pressure Pulmonary Ventilators (NPPV) are medical devices used to assist individuals in breathing by creating a negative pressure or vacuum around the chest area, which facilitates inhalation and exhalation. These ventilators function on the principle that when the external pressure surrounding the chest is lowered, air is drawn into the lungs, and when the pressure is increased, air is expelled.
Commonly used to support patients with respiratory failure or chronic respiratory conditions, NPPV is a non-invasive alternative to traditional positive pressure ventilators. This type of ventilation therapy is particularly useful in cases where the patient can maintain their spontaneous breathing efforts but requires additional respiratory support.
Negative Pressure Pulmonary Ventilators are typically designed as airtight chambers that enclose the individual's chest, sealed using a collar or a jacket-like garment. A vacuum source connected to the device regulates the pressure inside the chamber, creating the desired negative pressure effect. This system enables the expansion of the chest and draws air into the lungs during inspiration.
NPPV devices can be adjusted to deliver specific levels of negative pressure, allowing healthcare professionals to tailor the treatment to each patient's needs. The use of negative pressure ventilation helps enhance lung function, decrease the work of breathing, and provide relief for patients with respiratory distress.
Overall, Negative Pressure Pulmonary Ventilators offer a non-invasive approach to respiratory support, improving lung function and easing breathing for patients with various respiratory conditions.
