Efficacy of Early Non-Invasive Ventilation on ICU Stay and Outcomes in Type II Respiratory Failure Post-Extubation: A Prospective Study

Background: The application of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) following extubation in acute respiratory failure patients remains a contentious issue. Respiratory failure after extubation is a common occurrence post-mechanical ventilation, necessitating reintubation in approximately 10% of cases, with prevalence ranging from 4% to 24%. Aim of the study: To evaluate whether the early application of NIV immediately after extubation can reduce ICU stay duration in type II respiratory failure patients. Patients and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the ICU of Bruida Central Hospital from February to October 2022. Patients intubated for more than 48 hours due to type II respiratory failure and successfully completing a two-hour spontaneous breathing trial were randomized into a control group receiving standard medical therapy (SMT) with oxygen supplementation and an NIV group receiving the same treatment with additional NIV support. Results: The ICU stay in the NIV group was shorter than in the SMT group, although the difference was not statistically significant. Mortality rates and respiratory failure incidence were lower in the NIV group but without significant intergroup differences. Conclusion: Early implementation of NIV post-extubation reduced ICU stay, the risk of respiratory failure, and mortality in type II respiratory failure patients.