Long-term non-invasive ventilation in children

Sleep and sleep-related breathing disorders in patients with spinal muscular atrophy: a changing perspective from novel treatments?

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is an inherited neuromuscular disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and atrophy, resulting from the degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord. A critical aspect of SMA is its impact on respiratory function. As the disease progresses, respiratory muscles, in particular intercostal muscles, become increasingly affected, leading to breathing difficulties and respiratory failure. Without intervention, many children with SMA type 1 die from respiratory failure before their second year of life. While assisted ventilation has improved survival, it often results in ventilator dependence. The development of new SMN-augmenting therapies has renewed optimism, but their long-term impact on respiratory function is uncertain, and non-invasive respiratory support remains an important part of SMA management. Despite the importance of respiratory support in SMA, knowledge regarding sleep disorders in this population is limited. This review aims to synthesize existing literature on sleep and sleep-related breathing disorders in patients with SMA, with a focus on SMA type 1. We summarize evidence of sleep-disordered breathing and respiratory failure in SMA, as well as outcomes and survival benefits associated with non-invasive or invasive ventilation with or without pharmacological therapies. We also discuss current knowledge regarding the effects of novel disease-modifying therapies for SMA on respiratory function and sleep. In conclusion, optimal care for children with SMA requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes neurology and respiratory specialists. This review highlights the importance of monitoring sleep and respiratory function in SMA, as well as the potential benefits and challenges associated with assisted ventilation combined with new therapies.

Mask interfaces and devices for home noninvasive ventilation in children

Home noninvasive ventilation (NIV), including continuous (CPAP) and bilevel (BPAP) positive airway pressure, is increasingly used in children worldwide. In this narrative review, we present a comprehensive summary of the equipment available for home NIV in pediatrics, excluding neonates. NIV may be challenging in young children, as the majority of the equipment has been developed for adults. Regarding the interfaces, only a few masks have been specifically developed for young children in recent years, while older children may benefit from a large variety of interfaces. Even though much progress has been made, skin injuries are still present, and need to be managed rapidly. Several studies addressed the management of the side effects, but recent studies are lacking regarding orofacial anomalies. No recent study reported the available interfaces for young children and the strategies for an optimal mask fit. Regarding the devices, an adapted NIV device to pediatrics that allows an adequate patient's breathing detection should guarantee optimal ventilatory efficiency and monitoring of NIV. A close follow-up and regular monitoring should be mandatory to rule out the potential issues, optimize NIV therapy and ascertain the efficacy of NIV. However, studies are lacking to guide the choice of devices in young children and the optimal management of home NIV in pediatrics. We summarized the characteristics of the different interfaces available for young children and the limitations of NIV devices. We finally addressed potential areas for future research on long-term home NIV in children.

Incidence, outcome, and prognostic factors of prolonged mechanical ventilation among children in Chinese mainland: a multi-center survey

Objective

To evaluate the incidence, outcome, and prognostic factors of prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) in children in Mainland China.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in 11 pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) from May 1, 2021, to April 30, 2022. All pediatric patients on mechanical ventilation meeting the criteria for PMV were included in the study.

Results

Out of 5,292 patients receiving mechanical ventilation, 278 children met the criteria for PMV (5.3%). After excluding case with incomplete data or lost to follow-up, the study included 250 patients. Among them, 115 were successfully weaned from mechanical ventilation, 90 died, and 45 were still on mechanical ventilation. The 6-month survival rate was 64%. The primary associated conditions of PMV were lower airway diseases (36%), central nervous system diseases (32%), and neuromuscular diseases (14%). The stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the utilization of vasoactive agents and an elevated pediatric logistic organ dysfunction-2 (PELOD-2) score on the day of PMV diagnosis were significantly associated with an increased of PMV death. Specifically, the odds ratio (OR) for vasoactive agent use was 2.86; (95% CI: 0.15-0.84; P = 0.018), and for the PELOD-2 score, it was 1.37; 95% CI: 1.17-1.61; P < .001). Conversely, early rehabilitation intervention was negatively associated with the risk of PMV death (OR = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.22-0.93; P = .032). Furthermore, the tracheotomy timing emerged as an independent predictor of failure to wean from PMV, with an OR of 1.08, (95% CI: 1.01-1.16; P = .030).

Conclusions

The study revealed a 5.3% incidence of PMV in children requiring mechanical ventilation in China. The use of vasoactive agents and a higher PELOD-2 score at PMV diagnosis were significantly associated with an increased risk of PMV death, whereas early rehabilitation intervention was identified as crucial for improving patient outcomes. The timing of tracheostomy was identified as a high-risk factor for failure to wean from mechanical ventilation.

Analysis of mandibular jaw movements to assess ventilatory support management of children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome treated with positive airway pressure therapies

BACKGROUND

The polysomnography (PSG) is the gold-standard for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome diagnosis and assessment under positive airway pressure (PAP) therapies in children. Recently, an innovative digital medicine solution, including a mandibular jaw movement (MJM) sensor coupled with automated analysis, has been validated as an alternative to PSG for pediatric application.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the reliability of MJM automated analysis for the assessment of residual apnea/hypopnea events during sleep in children with OSA treated with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) or continuous PAP (CPAP).

METHODS

In this open-label prospective non-randomized multicentric trial, we included children aged from 5 to 18 years with a diagnosis of severe OSA. The children underwent in-laboratory PSG with simultaneous MJM monitoring and at-home recording with MJM monitoring 3 months later. Agreement between PSG and MJM analysis in measuring the residual apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was evaluated by the Bland-Altman method. The treatment effect on residual AHI was estimated for both PSG and MJM analysis.

RESULTS

Fifteen (60% males) children were included with a median age of 12 years [interquartile range 8-15]. Two (17%) were ventilated with NIV and 13 (83%) with CPAP. There was a good agreement between MJM-AHI and PSG-AHI with a median bias of -0.25 (95% CI: -3.40 to +2.04) events/h. The reduction in AHI under treatment was consistently significant across the three measurement methods: in-laboratory PSG and MJM recordings in the laboratory and at home.

CONCLUSION

Automated analysis of MJM is a highly reliable alternative method to assess residual events in a small population treated with PAP therapies.

Post-acute day and night non-invasive respiratory intervention use and outcome: A brief report

PURPOSE

This study aimed to describe daytime and nighttime use and outcome of non-invasive respiratory intervention (NIRI) for infants born prematurely and for children with medical complexity (CMC) during a post-acute care hospital (PACH) admission.

METHODS

Thirty-eight initial PACH admissions (October 2018 through September 2020) for premature infants (< 1 year; n = 19) and CMC (> 1 year; n = 19) requiring NIRI during the day and/or at night were retrospectively examined. Measures included: 1) daytime and nighttime NIRI use by type (supplemental oxygen therapy via low-flow nasal cannula or positive airway pressure [PAP] via high-flow nasal cannula, continuous positive airway pressure, or biphasic positive airway pressure at admission and discharge) and 2) daytime and nighttime NIRI outcome reduction, increase, or no change from admission to discharge.

RESULTS

For the total sample (n = 38), daytime vs nighttime NIRI use was significantly different (p < 0.001). At both admission and discharge, supplemental oxygen was the most common NIRI during the day, while PAP was most common at night. From admission to discharge, seven (18%) infants and children had a positive change (reduced NIRI) during the day, while nine (24%) had a positive change at night. At discharge, 11/38 (29%) infants and children required no daytime NIRI, while 4/38 (11%) required no day or night NIRI.

CONCLUSION

NIRI use differs between day and night at PACH admission and discharge for CMC. Reductions in NIRI were achieved during the day and at night from PACH admission to discharge for both infants born prematurely and for children with varied congenital, neurological, or cardiac diagnoses.

Short-term Non-invasive Ventilation for Children with Palliative Care Needs

Objectives

Non-invasive ventilation (NIV), namely continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP), delivers mechanical ventilation without endotracheal intubation. Short-term NIV (planned for <21 days during initiation) can be used for the management of acute respiratory distress (ARD) among paediatric palliative patients with "Do Not Resuscitate or Intubate" (DNI) as the ceiling of care. This study aimed to describe the usage of short-term NIV among paediatric palliative patients in a woman and child hospital with a paediatric palliative subspecialty.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective and observational study was conducted on all paediatric palliative patients who received short-term NIV in Tunku Azizah Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from March 2020 to May 2022.

Results

During the study period, short-term NIV was offered on 23 occasions for 20 different children. Indications for short-term NIV include 16 (69.6%) occasions of potentially reversible ARD (NIV Category 1) and 7 (30.4%) occasions of comfort care at the end of life (NIV Category 2). The main cause of ARD was pneumonia (90.3%) due to either aspiration or infection. The modality of NIV used was BiPAP only (14 occasions, 60.9%), CPAP only (three occasions, 13%) and both BiPAP and CPAP (six occasions, 26.1%). The median duration of NIV usage was four days (minimum one day and maximum 15 days). NIV was initiated as an escalation from nasal prong, Ventimask or high-flow mask oxygen on 22 occasions and as weaning down post-extubation on one occasion. For the 22 occasions of escalating therapy, there was significant improvement at six hours compared to pre-NIV in the median heart rate (136 to 121, P=0.002), respiratory rate (40 to 31, P=0.002) and oxygen saturation (96% to 99%, P=0.025). All 17 documented parental impressions of the child's condition post six hours of NIV were that the child had improved. Adverse events during short-term NIV include five episodes (21.7%) of stomach distension, four episodes (17.4%) of skin sores on the face and one episode (4.3%) of excessive drooling. Three patients passed away while on NIV in the hospital. For the other 20 (87%) occasions, patients were able to wean off NIV. Post-weaning off NIV, three patients passed away during the same admission. On 17 occasions, patients were discharged home after weaning off NIV.

Conclusion

Usage of short-term NIV in paediatric palliative care, where children have an advanced directive in place indicating DNI, as seen in our study, can be a valuable modality of management for distressing symptoms, in addition to the pharmacological management of breathlessness. This is shown through our study to be of benefit in potentially reversible ARD as well as comfort care at the end of life. Further rigorous studies will need to be conducted for a clearer understanding of short-term NIV that would enable the formulation of guidelines to improve the quality of life and death in children.

Positive end-expiratory pressure in chronic care of children with obstructive sleep apnoea

Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) consists of the delivery of a constant positive pressure in the airways by means of a noninvasive interface aiming to maintain airway patency throughout the entire respiratory cycle. PEEP is increasingly used in the chronic care of children with anatomical or functional abnormalities of the upper airways to correct severe persistent obstructive sleep apnea despite optimal management which commonly includes adenotonsillectomy in young children. PEEP may be used at any age, due to improvements in equipment and interfaces. Criteria for CPAP/NIV initiation, optimal setting, follow-up and monitoring, as well as weaning criteria have been established by international experts, but validated criteria are lacking. As chronic PEEP is a highly specialised treatment, patients should be managed by an expert pediatric multidisciplinary team.

Pediatric long-term noninvasive respiratory support in children with central nervous system disorders

RATIONALE

The use of long-term noninvasive respiratory support is increasing in children along with an extension of indications, in particular in children with central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of children with CNS disorders treated with long-term noninvasive respiratory support in France.

METHODS

Data were collected from 27 French pediatric university centers through an anonymous questionnaire filled for every child treated with noninvasive ventilatory support ≥3 months on 1st June 2019.

MAIN RESULTS

The data of 182 patients (55% boys, median age: 10.2 [5.4;14.8] years old [range: 0.3-25]) were collected: 35 (19%) patients had nontumoral spinal cord injury, 22 (12%) CNS tumors, 63 (35%) multiple disabilities, 26 (14%) central alveolar hypoventilation and 36 (20%) other CNS disorders. Seventy five percent of the patients were treated with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and 25% with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The main investigations performed before CPAP/NIV initiation were nocturnal gas exchange recordings, alone or coupled with poly(somno)graphy (in 29% and 34% of the patients, respectively). CPAP/NIV was started in an acute setting in 10% of the patients. Median adherence was 8 [6;10] hours/night, with 12% of patients using treatment <4 h/day. Nasal mask was the most common interface (70%). Airway clearance techniques were used by 31% of patients.

CONCLUSION

CPAP/NIV may be a therapeutic option in children with CNS disorders. Future studies should assess treatment efficacy and patient reported outcome measures.

The care burden for technology-dependent children with long-term home ventilation increases along with the improvement of their motor functions

Since the establishment of Japan's publicly supported pediatric home medical care (PHMC) system in 2012, the number of technology-dependent children (TDC) who are supported by PHMC has been increasing. We expected care to become easier as TDC mobility increased. However, many family caregivers complained of the opposite, that the burden of care increased as TDC's mobility increased. Therefore, we aimed to study the problems of the care burden of families in relation to the improvement of mobility of TDC with a focus on respiratory support. We conducted a survey among caregivers of TDC in two parts: a first survey was done between 2018 and 2020, and a follow-up survey in 2023. In each medical procedure, the correlation of TDC's motor function level with care burden was analyzed by using correlation analysis. In 15 households, caregivers' activities were monitored to elucidate the problems of the care objectively. The second survey was conducted in February 2023 in TDC whose medical records were available. Analysis of 418 cases showed that care-burden increased with improvements in the children's motor ability in tracheostomy, or remained the same in other procedures. A follow-up study in 262/418 cases of this group showed that part of these TDC with high mobility aged 1-8, after passing through the mobile phase with increased burden of care, had a high potential to be weaned from medical devices.  Conclusion: For TDC who acquire motor skills during PHMC, the burden of care for caregivers either increases or remains the same. It is important to maintain social support for TDC on the recovering mobile stage. What is Known: • There was no clear information on the care burden when TDC become mobile. What is New: • We did a qualitative study to show that the care burden increases when TDC become mobile. • In addition, mobike TDC showed a high potential for recovery.

Predictors of NIV-related adverse events in children using long-term noninvasive ventilation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

An increasing number of children with diverse medical conditions are using long-term noninvasive ventilation (NIV). This study examined the impact of demographic, clinical, and technology-related factors on long-term NIV adverse events in a large cohort of children using long-term NIV.

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective review of all children who initiated long-term NIV in the province of Alberta, Canada, from January 2005 to September 2014, and followed until December 2015. Inclusion criteria were children who had used NIV for 3 months or more and had at least one follow-up visit with the NIV programs.

RESULTS

We identified 507 children who initiated NIV at a median age of 7.5 (interquartile range: 8.6) years and 93% of them reported at least one NIV-related adverse event during the initial follow-up visit. Skin injury (20%) and unintentional air leaks (19%) were reported more frequently at the initial visit. Gastrointestinal symptoms, midface hypoplasia, increased drooling, aspiration and pneumothorax were rarely reported (<5%). Younger age and underlying conditions such as Down syndrome, achondroplasia, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy were early predictors of unintentional air leak. Younger age also predicted child sleep disruption in the short term and ongoing parental sleep disruption. Obesity was a risk factor for persistent nasal symptoms. Mask type was not a significant predictor for NIV-related short- or long-term complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that NIV-related complications are frequent. Appropriate mask-fitting and headgear adaptation, and a proactive approach to early detection may help to reduce adverse events.

A Diagnostic Challenge in an Adolescent with Collagen VI-Related Myopathy and Emotional Disorder-Case Report

Collagen VI-related disorders constitute a spectrum of severities from the milder Bethlem myopathy (BM) to the Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD), which is more severe, and an intermediate form characterized by muscle weakness that begins in infancy. Affected children are able to walk, although walking becomes increasingly difficult starting in early adulthood. They develop contractures in the ankles, elbows, knees, and spine in childhood. In some affected cases, the respiratory muscles are weakened, requiring mechanical ventilation, particularly during sleep. Individuals with collagen VI-related myopathy are at risk of restrictive lung disease and sleep-disordered breathing due to the development of scoliosis associated with neuromuscular weakness. Typical signs of respiratory failure are not always present, and some patients are unaware that their respiratory muscles have become weaker. Here, we report a case of an intermediate form of collagen VI-related myopathy confirmed by next-generation sequencing. The girl presented morning headache, irritability, and aggressiveness, and because of these main symptoms, she was referred by the neurologist for respiratory evaluation. The result of spirometry was associated with hypoventilation shown during sleep studies, indicating the necessity to initiate home non-invasive ventilation (NIV) with immediate improvement in the symptoms. Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) have a great impact on sleep, but only very few studies evaluating sleep quality in young patients with collagen VI-related myopathy have been described. Daytime symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing may include irritability, emotional lability, and poor attentiveness, but these can be overseen by the severity of other complex medical problems in patients with collagen VI-related myopathy. We underline the importance of the close monitoring of respiratory function, sleep evaluation, and decision making to support the NIV treatment of other collagen VI-related myopathy variant-specific patients. Early recognition of sleep disturbances and initiation of respiratory support can preserve or enhance the quality of life for patients and their caregivers. Routine screening for identification of emotional distress should be instituted in the clinical practice using validated psychological measures in a multidisciplinary approach with different intervention strategies for both patient and parent when necessary.

Changes in UK paediatric long-term ventilation practice over 10 years

OBJECTIVES

To provide up-to-date information on the use of long-term ventilation (LTV) in the UK paediatric population and to compare the results with data collected 10 and 20 years previously.

DESIGN

A single timepoint census completed by LTV centres in the UK, carried out via an online survey.

SETTING AND PATIENTS

All patients attending paediatric LTV services in the UK.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 25 LTV centres in the UK. The total study population was 2383 children and young people, representing a 2.5-fold increase in the last 10 years. The median age was 9 years (range 0-20 years). Notable changes since 2008 were an increase in the proportion of children with central hypoventilation syndrome using mask ventilation, an increase in overall numbers of children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 1, chronic lung disease of prematurity and cerebral palsy being ventilated, and a 4.2-fold increase in children using LTV for airway obstruction. The use of 24-hour ventilation, negative pressure ventilation and tracheostomy as an interface had declined. 115 children had received a disease-modifying drug. The use of ataluren and Myozyme did not influence the decision to treat with LTV, but in 35% of the children with SMA type 1 treated with nusinersin, the clinician stated that the use of this drug had or may have influenced their decision to initiate LTV.

CONCLUSION

The results support the need for national database for children and young people using LTV at home to inform future recommendations and assist in resource allocation planning.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on adherence to noninvasive ventilation in children

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to measure changes in adherence to noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in children during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of children (0-18 years) using home NIV through the Stollery's Pediatric NIV program in Edmonton, Canada during March 2019 to March 2021. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and adherence information from machine downloads were collected prior to and during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Paired t tests and Chi-square compared adherence prepandemic and during pandemic and repeated analysis of variance tests compared adherence pre- and 0-6 and 6-12 months during pandemic.

RESULTS

Eighty-two children met inclusion criteria (62% male; age 8.6 ± 4.6 years). Overall, there were no changes in NIV adherence during pandemic (average NIV minutes pre- and during pandemic of 390 ± 219 and 405 ± 300 minutes, respectively). When separated into increased vs decreased adherence groups, adherence differences pre- compared to during pandemic became significant, with no differences across demographic/clinical variables or prepandemic adherence. There were no changes in NIV adherence during the initial 6 months of pandemic compared to prepandemic, but NIV use significantly increased by 9-57 minutes during the following 6-12 months. Bilevel positive airway users had longer NIV use than continuous positive airway pressure users at all time points, with an overall increasing trend over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the significant life disruption created by COVID-19 and changes to virtual care, children using home NIV maintained adequate adherence. Qualitative research is needed to understand the nuances of using NIV during the pandemic and potential advantages of virtual care for support of these children and families.

CITATION

Halperin H, Chalifour M, Bedi PK, et al. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on adherence to noninvasive ventilation in children. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(1):179-188.

Predicting hypercapnia and hypoxia by the ventilator's built-in software in children on long-term non-invasive ventilation: A pilot study

Introduction

Follow-up of children on long-term non-invasive ventilation (NIV) could be improved by telemonitoring, using the ventilator's built-in software (BIS) parameters as alternative for in-hospital sleep studies to reduce costs, enhance patient independence and contribute to early detection of infections. This pilot study investigated whether analysis of BIS parameters can predict abnormal nocturnal transcutaneous CO2 (TcCO2) and saturation (SpO2) measurements in children on long-term NIV.

Methods

Children on long-term NIV in follow-up at the Antwerp University Hospital were retrospectively included. Nocturnal TcCO2 and SpO2 measurements were collected together with BIS parameters at three different time points: the night of the sleep study (BIS₁), mean values from 48 h (BIS₂) and 72 h (BIS₃) before the sleep study. Predictions were calculated for following outcome measures: % recording time TcCO2 > 46.9 mmHg (%RT TcCO2; abnormal if ≥2%), recording time SpO2 < 93% (RT SpO2; abnormal if >1 h), abnormal TcCO2 or SpO2, mean TcCO2, mean SpO2.

Results

69 patients were included. %RT TcCO2 was separately predicted by reached tidal volume₂ [OR 0.97 (0.93; 1.00); p = 0.051; AUC = 30%] and reached IPAP₁ [OR 1.05 (1.00; 1.10); p = 0.050; AUC = 66%]. Leak₁ predicted RT SpO2 [OR 1.21 (1.02; 1.43); p = 0.025; AUC = 84%]. Mean TcCO2 correlated with reached tidal volume₂ (R² 0.10, p = 0.033).

Discussion

Certain BIS parameters can predict nocturnal hypercapnia and desaturation in children on long-term NIV. Future studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to further investigate the predictive value of the identified BIS parameters.

Long term noninvasive ventilation and continuous positive airway pressure in children with neuromuscular diseases in France

The aim of the study was to describe the characteristics of children with neuromuscular diseases treated with long term noninvasive ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure in France. On June 1st 2019, 387 patients (63% boys, mean age 11.2 ± 5.5 years) were treated with long term noninvasive ventilation/continuous positive airway pressure. Thirty three percent of patients had spinal muscular atrophy, 30% congenital myopathy/dystrophy, 20% Duchenne muscular dystrophy, 7% Steinert myotonic dystrophy, and 9% other neuromuscular diseases. Ninety-four percent of patients were treated with long term noninvasive ventilation and 6% with continuous positive airway pressure. Treatment was initiated electively for 85% of patients, mainly on an abnormal overnight gas exchange recording (38% of patients). Noninvasive ventilation/continuous positive airway pressure was initiated during a respiratory exacerbation in 15% of patients. Mean duration of noninvasive ventilation/continuous positive airway pressure was 3.3 ± 3.1 years. Mean objective long term noninvasive ventilation/continuous positive airway pressure use was 8.0 ± 3.1 h/24. Spinal muscular atrophy, congenital myopathy/dystrophy, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy represented 83% of children with neuromuscular diseases treated with long term noninvasive ventilation in France. Screening for nocturnal hypoventilation was satisfactory as noninvasive ventilation /continuous positive airway pressure was predominantly initiated electively.

Long-Term Ventilation in Children with Medical Complexity: A Challenging Issue

Children with medical complexity (CMCs) represent a subgroup of children who may have congenital or acquired multisystemic disease. CMCs are frequently predisposed to respiratory problems and often require long-term mechanical ventilation (LTMV). The indications for LTMV in CMCs are increasing, but gathering evidence about indications, titration, and monitoring is currently the most difficult challenge due to the absence of validated data. The aim of this review was to examine the clinical indications and ethical considerations for the initiation, continuation, or withdrawal of LTMV among CMCs. The decision to initiate long-term ventilation should always be based on clinical and ethical considerations and should be shared with the parents.

Changes in Ventilatory Support Requirements of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Patients Post Gene-Based Therapies

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic neuromuscular disease resulting in global muscular weakness and, frequently, in respiratory failure and premature death. Gene-based therapies like Nusinersen are now available for patients with SMA. The aim of this review was to assess in "real world" studies, whether novel treatments would have a positive impact on the mechanical ventilatory support requirements of SMA patients, already initiated on ventilatory support prior to treatment administration. A literature search was performed in Pubmed using multiple combinations of MESH terms and the snowball procedure. A total of 14 publications were discussed in this review. Considering all patients included in the published studies who were on ventilatory support and were treated with Nusinersen, 13/172 (7.5%) had reduced needs for ventilatory support, 1/172 (0.6%) did not need ventilation post-treatment, and 122/172 (70.9%) were maintained on the same ventilator settings. Moreover, 2/41 (4.9%) children who were offered gene therapy had no need for further ventilatory support and 12/41 (29.2%) had reduced requirements. In conclusion, available evidence suggests that among children with SMA, who are on mechanical respiratory support either noninvasively or via tracheostomy at the time of gene-based treatment, only a few will be weaned off the ventilator or have reduced ventilator needs per 24 h. Children will usually require the same level of support as before treatment.

ERS Statement on pediatric long term noninvasive respiratory support

Long term noninvasive respiratory support, comprising continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and noninvasive ventilation (NIV), in children is expanding worldwide, with increasing complexities of children being considered for this type of ventilator support and expanding indications such as palliative care. There have been improvements in equipment and interfaces. Despite growing experience, there are still gaps in a significant number of areas: there is a lack of validated criteria for CPAP/NIV initiation, optimal follow-up and monitoring; weaning and long term benefits have not been evaluated. Therapeutic education of the caregivers and the patient is of paramount importance, as well as continuous support and assistance, in order to achieve optimal adherence. The preservation or improvement of the quality of life of the patient and caregivers should be a concern for all children treated with long term CPAP/NIV. As NIV is a highly specialised treatment, patients are usually managed by an experienced pediatric multidisciplinary team. This Statement written by experts in the field of pediatric long term CPAP/NIV aims to emphasize on the most recent scientific input and should open up to new perspectives and research areas.

Feasibility of long-term home noninvasive ventilation program in a general pediatric unit: 21 years' experience in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND

Long-term home noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is increasingly employed in children with sleep-disordered breathing and chronic respiratory failure. While studies suggest its successful implementation in tertiary care centers, little is known about the situation in a general care setting. Hence, we aim to evaluate the clinical profiles of these children in a general pediatric unit over the past two decades.

METHODS

Data collected retrospectively on patients younger than 18 years old receiving long-term home NIV from January 1, 1997 to December 31, 2017 in a Hong Kong regional general pediatric unit were reviewed.

RESULTS

The number of children on home NIV increased more than 10-fold over the past two decades. In total, 114 children were commenced on NIV during the 21-year period. Upper airway obstruction was the most common cause (77%), followed by neuromuscular diseases (16%), pulmonary disorders (4%), and abnormal ventilatory control (3%). Continuous positive airway pressure was the most common NIV type (59%). To date, 46% of the children remained in our NIV program, while 18% discontinued NIV support. NIV adherence increased significantly with follow-up (median of 78.6% and 82.5% at baseline and last follow-up, respectively). Sixty-five percent of the children used NIV for at least 4 h on 70% of the days monitored. Higher body mass index was associated with lower adherence.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric home NIV is feasible in the general care setting with good outcomes and adherence. As the demand for NIV service grows, input from local hospitals will be of increasing importance and should be considered upon healthcare planning.

Sleep in children and young adults with cystic fibrosis

Large gains have been made in the management of respiratory diseases associated with cystic fibrosis (CF). Initial studies evaluating sleep issues in CF focused on respiratory problems of nocturnal hypoxia, alveolar hypoventilation and risk of airway obstruction from nasal polyps with treatment evaluations including long term oxygen therapy or noninvasive ventilation in case of nocturnal hypercapnia. More recent studies include patients whose lung function is better preserved, and have permitted more focus on sleep patterns and sleep quality. This literature identified that reduced sleep duration and poor sleep quality are common and may be explained by chronic pain and cough, frequent stools, gastro-oesophageal reflux, nasal obstruction or sinusitis, and drugs such as corticosteroids or beta-agonists. In the teenage years, poor sleep hygiene, sleep debt and poor sleep quality are associated with depression, poor academic performance, less physical activity, and a decrease in quality of life. Restless leg syndrome also seems to be common in adult patients with CF. These sleep problems seem more important in patients with a low lung function but may also be observed in patients with preserved lung function. The consequences of poor sleep may potentially exaggerate the multi-organ morbidity of CF, such as pain, inflammation, susceptibility to infection, and glucose intolerance, but these aspects are largely under-evaluated. Sleep should be evaluated on a routine basis in CF and prospective studies assessing the benefits of interventions aiming at improving sleep duration and sleep quality urgently needed.

Who is using noninvasive ventilation? A descriptive study examining the population enrolled in a pediatric noninvasive ventilation program

DESIGN AND METHODS

This study used a retrospective design and involved reviewing the charts of infants and children enrolled in the noninvasive ventilation (NIV) program at a quaternary pediatric hospital located in Western Canada in 2017. Demographic and clinical variables were collected, along with variables related to adherence to NIV therapy. For data storage and analysis purposes, a comprehensive database was created. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and better understand patterns within the data.

RESULTS

Findings included a comprehensive description of the population of infants and children enrolled in this NIV program in 2017, including demographic and clinical variables as well as follow-up and adherence data. This study identified that the NIV program at this pediatric center has unique characteristics which provide an exciting opportunity for further research into the population that requires NIV support.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

This study presents new knowledge, gathered by examining the clinical characteristics of a pediatric population that requires NIV, which can be used to inform practice, support NIV program planning, and health resource allocation, as well as suggest directions for future research on pediatric NIV therapy.

Sleep Disordered Breathing in Adults with Cerebral Palsy: What Do We Know So Far?

As advances in medicine continue to extend the lifespan of patients with cerebral palsy (CP), emphasis must be placed on evaluating patients for chronic health issues common in the general adult population. Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) affects a large number of otherwise healthy adults and is even more common in individuals with disability. SDB includes the following subtypes: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and sleep-related hypoventilation/hypoxemia. SDB consequences include poor daytime functioning from sleepiness and an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. There is a paucity of data available in the literature about the association between SDB and CP in the adult population. More research is needed to understand the true prevalence and management strategies of SDB in patients with CP. This review focuses on three major subtypes of SDB: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and sleep-related hypoventilation/hypoxemia.

Obstructing Sleep Apnea in Children with Genetic Disorders-A Special Need for Early Multidisciplinary Diagnosis and Treatment

Background—Children with genetic disorders have multiple anatomical and physiological conditions that predispose them to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). They should have priority access to polysomnography (PSG) before establishing their therapeutic protocol. We analyzed the prevalence and the severity of OSAS in a particular group of children with genetic disorders and strengthened their need for a multidisciplinary diagnosis and adapted management. Methods—The retrospective analysis included children with genetic impairments and sleep disturbances that were referred for polysomnography. We collected respiratory parameters from sleep studies: apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), SatO₂ nadir, end-tidal CO₂, and transcutaneous CO₂. Subsequent management included non-invasive ventilation (NIV) or otorhinolaryngological (ENT) surgery of the upper airway. Results—We identified 108 patients with neuromuscular disorders or multiple congenital anomalies. OSAS was present in 87 patients (80.5%), 3 of whom received CPAP, 32 needed another form of NIV during sleep, and 15 patients were referred for ENT surgery. The post-therapeutic follow-up PSG parameters confirmed the success of the treatment. Conclusions—The upper airway obstruction diagnostics and management for children with complex genetic diseases need a multidisciplinary approach. Early detection and treatment of sleep-disordered breathing in children with genetic disorders is a priority for improving their quality of life.

Predictors of longitudinal outcomes for children using long-term noninvasive ventilation

BACKGROUND

Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is a first-line therapy for sleep-related breathing disorders and chronic respiratory insufficiency. Evidence about predictors that may impact long-term NIV outcomes, however, is scarce. The aim of this study is to determine demographic, clinical, and technology-related predictors of long-term NIV outcomes.

METHODS

A 10-year multicentred retrospective review of children started on long-term continuous or bilevel positive airway pressure (CPAP or BPAP) in Alberta. Demographic, technology-related, and longitudinal clinical data were collected. Long-term outcomes examined included ongoing NIV use, discontinuation due to improvement in underlying conditions, switch to invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) or death, patient/family therapy declination, transfer of services, and hospital admissions.

RESULTS

A total of 622 children were included. Both younger age and CPAP use predicted higher likelihood for NIV discontinuation due to improvement in underlying conditions (p < .05 and p < .01). Children with upper airway disorders or bronchopulmonary dysplasia were less likely to continue NIV (p < .05), while presence of central nervous system disorders had a higher likelihood of hospitalizations (p < .01). The presence of obesity/metabolic syndrome and early NIV-associated complications predicted higher risk for NIV declination (p < .05). Children with more comorbidities or use of additional therapies required more hospitalizations (p < .05 and p < .01) and the latter also predicted higher risk for being switched to IMV or death (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Demographic, clinical data, and NIV type impact long-term NIV outcomes and need to be considered during initial discussions about therapy expectations with families. Knowledge of factors that may impact long-term NIV outcomes might help to better monitor at-risk patients and minimize adverse outcomes.

Incidence and Severity of Nasal Injuries in Preterm Infants Associated to Non-Invasive Ventilation Using Short Binasal Prong

Short binasal prongs can cause skin and mucosal damage in the nostrils of preterm infants. The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence and severity of nasal injuries in preterm infants during the use of short binasal prongs as non-invasive ventilation (NIV) interfaces. A prospective observational study was carried out in the public hospital in a Southern Brazil. The incidence and severity of internal and external nasal injuries were evaluated in 28 preterm infants who required NIV using short binasal prongs for more than 24 hours. In order to identify possible causes of those nasal injuries, the expertise researcher physiotherapist has been carried empirical observations, analyzed the collected data, and correlated them to the literature data. A cause and effect diagram was prepared to present the main causes of the nasal injury occurred in the preterm infants assessed. The incidence of external nasal injuries was 67.86%, and internal ones 71.43%. The external nasal injuries were classified as Stage I (68.42%) and Stage II (31.58%). All the internal injuries had Stage II. The cause and effect diagram was organized into 5 categories containing 17 secondary causes of nasal injuries. There was a high incidence of Stage II-internal nasal injury and Stage I-external nasal injury in preterm infants submitted to NIV using prongs. The injuries genesis can be related to intrinsic characteristics of materials, health care, neonatal conditions, professional competence, and equipment issues.

Paediatric long term continuous positive airway pressure and noninvasive ventilation in France: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To describe the characteristics of children treated with long term continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in France.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional national survey.

SETTING

Paediatric CPAP/NIV teams of 28 tertiary university hospitals in France.

PATIENTS

Children aged <20 years treated with CPAP/NIV since at least 3 months on June 1st, 2019.

INTERVENTION

An anonymous questionnaire was filled in for every patient.

RESULTS

The data of 1447 patients (60% boys), mean age 9.8 ± 5.8 years were analysed. The most frequent underlying disorders were: upper airway obstruction (46%), neuromuscular disease (28%), disorder of the central nervous system (13%), cardiorespiratory disorder (7%), and congenital bone disease (4%). Forty-five percent of the patients were treated with CPAP and 55% with NIV. Treatment was initiated electively for 92% of children, while 8% started during an acute illness. A poly(somno)graphy (P(S)G) was performed prior to treatment initiation in 26%, 36% had a P(S)G with transcutaneous carbon dioxide monitoring (PtcCO₂), while 23% had only a pulse oximetry (SpO₂) with PtcCO₂ recording. The decision of CPAP/NIV initiation during an elective setting was based on the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) in 41% of patients, SpO₂ and PtcCO₂ in 25% of patients, and AHI with PtcCO₂ in 25% of patients. Objective adherence was excellent with a mean use of 7.6 ± 3.2 h/night. Duration of CPAP/NIV was 2.7 ± 2.9 years at the time of the survey.

CONCLUSION

This survey shows the large number of children treated with long term CPAP/NIV in France with numerous children having disorders other than neuromuscular diseases.

Respiratory management of children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) causes a predominantly bilateral proximal muscle weakness and atrophy. The respiratory muscles are also involved with a weakness of the intercostal muscles and a relatively spared diaphragm. This respiratory muscle weakness translates into a cough impairment, resulting in poor clearance of airway secretions and recurrent pulmonary infections, restrictive lung disease due to a poor or insufficient chest wall and lung growth, nocturnal hypoventilation and, finally, respiratory failure. Systematic and regular monitoring of respiratory muscle performance is necessary in children with SMA in order to anticipate respiratory complications, such as acute and chronic respiratory failure, and guide clinical care. This monitoring is based in clinical practice on volitional and noninvasive tests, such as vital capacity, sniff nasal inspiratory pressure, maximal static pressures, peak expiratory flow and peak cough flow because of their simplicity, availability and ease. In young children, those with poor cooperation or severe respiratory muscle weakness, other, mostly invasive, tests may be required to evaluate respiratory muscle performance. A sleep study, or at least overnight monitoring of nocturnal gas exchange is mandatory for detecting nocturnal alveolar hypoventilation. Training for patients and caregivers in cough-assisted techniques is recommended when respiratory muscle strength falls below 50% of predicted or in case of recurrent or severe respiratory infections. Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) should be initiated in case of isolated nocturnal hypoventilation and followed by a pediatric respiratory team with expertise in NIV. Multidisciplinary (neurology and respiratory) pediatric management is crucial for optimal care of children with SMA. © 2020 French Society of Pediatrics. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Long-Term Non-invasive Ventilation in Children: Current Use, Indications, and Contraindications

This review focuses on the delivery of non-invasive ventilation-i.e., intermittent positive-pressure ventilation-in children lasting more than 3 months. Several recent reviews have brought to light a dramatic escalation in the use of long-term non-invasive ventilation in children over the last 30 years. This is due both to the growing number of children receiving care for complex and severe diseases necessitating respiratory support and to the availability of LT-NIV equipment that can be used at home. While significant gaps in availability persist for smaller children and especially infants, home LT-NIV for children with chronic respiratory insufficiency has improved their quality of life and decreased the overall cost of care. While long-term NIV is usually delivered during sleep, it can also be delivered 24 h a day in selected patients. Close collaboration between the hospital complex-care team, the home LT-NIV program, and family caregivers is of the utmost importance for successful home LT-NIV. Long-term NIV is indicated for respiratory disorders responsible for chronic alveolar hypoventilation, with the aim to increase life expectancy and maximize quality of life. LT-NIV is considered for conditions that affect respiratory-muscle performance (alterations in central respiratory drive or neuromuscular function) and/or impose an excessive respiratory load (airway obstruction, lung disease, or chest-wall anomalies). Relative contraindications for LT-NIV include the inability of the local medical infrastructure to support home LT-NIV and poor motivation or inability of the patient/caregivers to cooperate or understand recommendations. Anatomic abnormalities that interfere with interface fitting, inability to protect the lower airways due to excessive airway secretions and/or severely impaired swallowing, or failure of LT-NIV to support respiration can lead to considering invasive ventilation via tracheostomy. Of note, providing home LT-NIV during the COVID 19 pandemic has become more challenging. This is due both to the disruption of medical systems and the fear of contaminating care providers and family with aerosols generated by a patient positive for SARS-CoV-2 during NIV. Delay in initiating LT-NIV, decreased frequency of home visits by the home ventilation program, and decreased availability of polysomnography and oximetry/transcutaneous PCO2 monitoring are observed. Teleconsultations and telemonitoring are being developed to mitigate these challenges.

Management of Rare Causes of Pediatric Chronic Respiratory Failure

The need for long-term noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NiPPV) in children with chronic respiratory failure is rapidly growing. This article reviews pediatric-specific considerations of NiPPV therapy. Indications for NiPPV therapy can be categorized by the cause of the respiratory failure: (1) upper airway obstruction, (2) musculoskeletal and/or neuromuscular disease, (3) lower respiratory tract diseases, and (4) control of breathing abnormalities. The role of NiPPV therapy in select rare conditions (spinal muscular atrophy, congenital central hypoventilation syndrome, cerebral palsy, scoliosis, and Chiari malformations) is also reviewed.

Feasibility of a pediatric long-term Home Ventilation Program in Argentina: 11 years' experience

BACKGROUND

Pediatric home ventilation (HV) has increased worldwide. A Home Ventilation Program (HVP) was started in the Pulmonary Department of the "Hospital de Pediatría Prof. Dr. J. P. Garrahan," Argentina, in 2007. This is the largest Argentine national pediatric tertiary care referral center. Limited studies on pediatric HV from Latin American countries have been published.

OBJECTIVE

This study describes and analyzes the cohort of children admitted to the HVP during an 11 years period.

METHODS

Longitudinal study.

POPULATION

all patients (pts) admitted to the HVP between 2007 and 2018. We analyzed demographic and clinical variables, sleep study results, ventilation setting, and start manner collected in a prospective data base.

RESULTS

A total of 244 pts were admitted. Median age at ventilation start was 9.41 (3.47-14.08) years, 84% of pts had health insurance. The most frequent underlying diseases were neuromuscular disease (43%) and genetic syndromes (23%). Home-hospital distance was 100-500 km in 16% of cases and greater than 500 km in 34%. Seventy percent of pts had sleep studies before ventilation initiation. Ventilation was started in our general pediatric ward in 83.6%. Noninvasive ventilation was used in 86.1%. The actual number of pts still on follow up is 133 of 244 (54.5%), 16.8% dropped out, 16.4% were transitioned to adult care, 5.32% resolved their sleep-disordered breathing, and 5.32% died.

CONCLUSIONS

The HVP admitted pts from all the country. Ventilation was started on the basis of clinical and objective sleep measures. This long-term experience underlines the feasibility of a HVP in an emergent country.

Characteristics and outcomes in children on long-term mechanical ventilation: the experience of a pediatric tertiary center in Rome

Background

Children with chronic respiratory failure and/or sleep disordered breathing due to a broad range of diseases may require long-term ventilation to be managed at home. Advances in the use of long-term non-invasive ventilation has progressively leaded to a reduction of the need for invasive mechanical ventilation through tracheostomy. In this study, we sought to characterize a cohort of children using long-term NIV and IMV and to perform an analysis of those children who showed significant changes in ventilatory support management.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of pediatric (within 18 years old) patients using long-term, NIV and IMV, hospitalized in our center between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2017. A total of 432 children were included in the study. Long Term Ventilation (LTV) was defined as IMV or NIV, performed on a daily basis, at least 6 h/day, for a period of at least 3 months.

Results

315 (72.9%) received non-invasive ventilation (NIV); 117 (27.1%) received invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). Children suffered mainly from neuromuscular (30.6%), upper airway (24.8%) and central nervous system diseases (22.7%). Children on IMV were significantly younger when they start LTV [NIV: 6.4 (1.2–12.8) years vs IMV 2.1 (0.8–7.8) years] (p < 0.001)]. IMV was likely associated with younger age at starting ventilatory support (aOR 0.9428; p = 0.0220), and being a child with home health care (aOR 11.4; p < 0.0001). Overtime 39 children improved (9%), 11 children on NIV (3.5%) received tracheostomy; 62 children died (14.3%); and 74 children (17.1%) were lost to follow-up (17.8% on NIV, 15.4% on IMV).

Conclusions

Children on LTV suffered mainly from neuromuscular, upper airways, and central nervous system diseases. Children invasively ventilated usually started support younger and were more severely ills.

Interfaces, Circuits and Humidifiers

Long-term non-invasive ventilation (LTNIV) has been increasingly used in children to manage chronic respiratory failure and airway obstruction. Interfaces are of paramount importance for non-invasive ventilation (NIV) effectiveness and patient compliance. However, historically, the choice of pediatric mask has been limited by the scarce availability of commercial interfaces. In recent years, an increasing number of different masks have been commercialized for children, allowing to increase the number of patients who could benefit from LTNIV. Factors such as the age of the child, disease, craniofacial conformation, type of ventilator and mode of ventilation, and children's and family's preferences should be taken into account when selecting the appropriate mask. Adverse events such as skin lesions, facial growth impairment, and leaks must be prevented and promptly corrected. Humidification is a controversial issue on NIV, but it may be useful in certain circumstances. Regular cleaning and disinfection of interfaces and equipment must be addressed. During follow-up, educational programs, close supervision, and continuous support to children and families are crucial to the success of LTNIV therapy.

Noninvasive Ventilation in Palliative Care and Ethical Dilemma

Significant difference exists between validated indications for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) use in children and current real life practice. Lately, dedicated centers have reported exponential growth of NIV use in children and adolescents. Upper airway obstruction, neuromuscular diseases, chronic lung/thoracic conditions, and central respiratory drive failure remain the most prevalent indications. However, the need to alleviate respiratory failure related distress has been increasingly recognized in several other conditions. Palliative care in children with life limiting disorders is a complex continuum of activities. In order to provide the most appropriate care for the patients and their families, the management often oscillates between actively curative and purely supportive actions. Despite unprecedented therapeutic advancements, several neurologic, metabolic, hemato-oncologic, respiratory, and other rare diseases remain with no curative options. Besides, attentiveness to relive suffering, awareness, and availability have moved the boundaries of NIV use toward conditions formerly not considered suitable for such care. Still, NIV has limitations and can, if sustained in inappropriate circumstances, fail to provide relief. A structured professional frameshift should be available for support and ethical guidance in order to provide confidence to patients, families and all the involved caregivers.

Non-invasive Ventilation and CPAP Failure in Children and Indications for Invasive Ventilation

Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) are effective treatments for children with severe sleep disordered breathing (SBD). However, some patients may present too severe SDB that do not respond to NIV/CPAP or insufficient compliance to treatment. A careful revaluation of the interface and of ventilator settings should be performed before considering alternative treatments. In patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), alternatives to CPAP/NIV rely on the underlying disease. Ear-nose-throat (ENT) surgery such as adeno-tonsillectomy (AT), turbinectomy or supraglottoplasty represent an effective treatment in selected patients before starting CPAP/NIV and should be reconsidered in case of CPAP failure. Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is restricted to children with OSA and a narrow palate who have little adenotonsillar tissue, or for those with residual OSA after AT. Weight loss is the first line therapy for obese children with OSA before starting CPAP and should remain a priority in the long-term. Selected patients may benefit from maxillo-facial surgery such as mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) or from neurosurgery procedures like fronto-facial monobloc advancement. Nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) or high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) may constitute efficient alternatives to CPAP in selected patients. Hypoglossal nerve stimulation has been proposed in children with Down syndrome not tolerant to CPAP. Ultimately, tracheostomy represents the unique alternative in case of failure of all the above-mentioned treatments. All these treatments require a multidisciplinary approach with a personalized treatment tailored on the different diseases and sites of obstruction. In patients with neuromuscular, neurological or lung disorders, non-invasive management in case of NIV failure is more challenging. Diaphragmatic pacing has been proposed for some patients with central congenital hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) or neurological disorders, however its experience in children is limited. Finally, invasive ventilation via tracheotomy represents again the ultimate alternative for children with severe disease and little or no ventilatory autonomy. However, ethical considerations weighting the efficacy against the burden of this treatment should be discussed before choosing this last option.

Ventilators and Ventilatory Modalities

Non-invasive ventilation is increasingly used in children for acute and chronic respiratory failure. Ventilators available for clinical use have different levels of complexity, and clinicians need to know in detail their characteristics, setting variables, and performances. A wide range of ventilators are currently used in non-invasive ventilation including bi-level ventilators, intermediate ventilators, and critical care ventilators. Simple or advanced continuous positive airway pressure devices are also available. Differences between ventilators may have implications on the development of asynchronies and air leaks and may be associated with discomfort and poor patient tolerance. Although pressure-targeted (controlled) mode is preferable in children because of barotrauma concerns, volume-targeted (controlled) ventilators are also available. Pressure support ventilation represents the most used non-invasive ventilation mode, as it is more physiological. The newest ventilators allow the clinicians to use the hybrid modes that combine the advantages of volume- and pressure-targeted (controlled) ventilation while limiting their drawbacks. The use of in-built software may help clinicians to optimize the ventilator setting as well as to objectively monitor patient adherence to the treatment. The present review aims to help the clinician with the choice of the ventilator and its ventilation modalities to ensure a successful non-invasive ventilation program.

Non-invasive Ventilation in Children With Neuromuscular Disease

The respiratory muscles are rarely spared in children with neuromuscular diseases (NMD) which puts them at risk of alveolar hypoventilation. The role of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is then to assist or "replace" the weakened respiratory muscles in order to correct alveolar hypoventilation by maintaining a sufficient tidal volume and minute ventilation. As breathing is physiologically less efficient during sleep, NIV will be initially used at night but, with the progression of respiratory muscle weakness, NIV can be extended during daytime, preferentially by means of a mouthpiece in order to allow speech and eating. Although children with NMD represent the largest group of children requiring long term NIV, there is a lack of validated criteria to start NIV. There is an agreement to start long term NIV in case of isolated nocturnal hypoventilation, before the appearance of daytime hypercapnia, and/or in case of acute respiratory failure requiring any type of ventilatory support. NIV is associated with a correction in night- and daytime gas exchange, an increase in sleep efficiency and an increase in survival. NIV and/or intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) have been shown to prevent thoracic deformities and consequent thoracic and lung hypoplasia in young children with NMD. NIV should be performed with a life support ventilator appropriate for the child's weight, with adequate alarms, and an integrated (±additional) battery. Humidification is recommended to improve respiratory comfort and prevent drying of bronchial secretions. A nasal interface (or nasal canula) is the preferred interface, a nasobuccal interface can be used with caution in case of mouth breathing. The efficacy of NIV should be assessed on the correction of alveolar ventilation. Patient ventilator synchrony and the absence of leaks can be assessed on a sleep study with NIV or on the analysis of the ventilator's in-built software. The ventilator settings and the interface should be adapted to the child's growth and progression of respiratory muscle weakness. NIV should be associated with an efficient clearance of bronchial secretions by a specific program on the ventilator, IPPB, or mechanical insufflation-exsufflation. Finally, these children should be managed by an expert pediatric multi-disciplinary team.

Non-invasive Ventilation for Children With Chronic Lung Disease

Advances in medical care and supportive care options have contributed to the survival of children with complex disorders, including children with chronic lung disease. By delivering a positive pressure or a volume during the patient's inspiration, NIV is able to reverse nocturnal alveolar hypoventilation in patients who experience hypoventilation during sleep, such as patients with chronic lung disease. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a common complication of prematurity, and despite significant advances in neonatal care over recent decades its incidence has not diminished. Most affected infants have mild disease and require a short period of oxygen supplementation or respiratory support. However, severely affected infants can become dependent on positive pressure support for a prolonged period. In case of established severe BPD, respiratory support with non-invasive or invasive positive pressure ventilation is required. Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and advanced lung disease develop hypoxaemia and hypercapnia during sleep and hypoventilation during sleep usually predates daytime hypercapnia. Hypoxaemia and hypercapnia indicates poor prognosis and prompts referral for lung transplantation. The prevention of respiratory failure during sleep in CF may prolong survival. Long-term oxygen therapy has not been shown to improve survival in people with CF. A Cochrane review on the use NIV in CF concluded that NIV in combination with oxygen therapy improves gas exchange during sleep to a greater extent than oxygen therapy alone in people with moderate to severe CF lung disease. Uncontrolled, non-randomized studies suggest survival benefit with NIV in addition to being an effective bridge to transplantation. Complications of NIV relate mainly to prolonged use of a face or nasal mask which can lead to skin trauma, and neurodevelopmental delay by acting as a physical barrier to social interaction. Another associated risk is pulmonary aspiration caused by vomiting whilst wearing a face mask. Adherence to NIV is one of the major barriers to treatment in children. This article will review the current evidence for indications, adverse effects and long term follow up including adherence to NIV in children with chronic lung disease.

Sometimes the Power of Science is Driven by the Ratio of Love

An infant with Crouzon syndrome was in need of cranial surgery. The optimum surgical correction was not possible, because at that time she was supported with continuous positive airway pressure attached to her occiput. However, the parents wanted the best craniofacial option and her father designed a respiratory support device with attachment to the forehead. Therefore, the most optimum cranial surgery could continue.

Sleep-disordered breathing in children with mucolipidosis

Mucolipidosis (ML) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder with a wide spectrum of disease severity according to the type. Sleep-disordered breathing is recognized as a characteristic feature of ML but objective data are scarce. The aim of the study was to describe sleep data and medical management in children with ML α/β. All patients with ML α/β followed at a national reference center of ML were included. Five patients had ML II, one patient had ML III and one patient had ML II-III. One patient was started on noninvasive ventilation (NIV) to allow extubation after prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation. The six other patients underwent sleep study at a median age of 1.8 years (range 4 months-17.4 years). Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was observed in all patients with a median apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of 36 events/hr (range 5-52) requiring continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or NIV. CPAP/NIV resulted in an improvement of nocturnal gas exchange and was continued in all patients with an excellent compliance. Two patients died. Systematic sleep studies are recommended at time of diagnosis in ML. CPAP or NIV are effective treatments of OSA, well tolerated, and may contribute to improve the quality of life of patients and caregivers.

Use of non-invasive ventilation in cerebral palsy

Patients with cerebral palsy (CP), especially those at the severe end of the spectrum (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV-V equivalent), frequently suffer from sleep disturbance and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is increasingly used in this patient group, albeit with little published evidence of its effectiveness in CP. This article aims to review the current evidence in the use of NIV in children with CP, highlighting areas of uncertainties, as well as the balance of potential risks, challenges and benefits. We would also share our experience and practical considerations in using NIV to manage SDB in this group of patients. Between January 2010 and December 2016, 21 patients (median age 11.1 (range 1.7-16.1) years) with CP were initiated on NIV at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children following diagnosis of moderate to severe SDB on cardiorespiratory polygraphy. Over half of our patients with CP (n=11) failed to establish on NIV either due to intolerance of mask and/or ventilation pressure at the initial trial in hospital, or poor adherence during follow-up, in contrast to the overall failure rate of 8.7% among total patient population commenced on NIV. Children with CP constitute a relatively small but challenging group of patients. Decision to undertake NIV should be individualised, based on benefit outweighing the risk and burden of the treatment.

The role of sleep diagnostics and non-invasive ventilation in children with spinal muscular atrophy

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a degenerative motor neurone disorder causing progressive muscular weakness. Without assisted ventilation or novel therapies, most children with SMA type 1 die before the second year of life due to respiratory failure as the respiratory muscles and bulbar function are severely affected. Active respiratory treatment (mechanically assisted cough, invasive or non-invasive ventilation) has improved survival significantly in recent decades, but often at the cost of becoming ventilator dependent. The advent of a new oligonucleotide based therapy (Nusinersen) has created new optimism for improving motor function. However, the long-term effect on respiratory function is unclear and non-invasive respiratory support will remain an important part of medical management in patients with SMA. This review summarises the existing knowledge about sleep-disordered breathing and respiratory failure in patients with SMA, especially type 1, as well as the evidence of improved outcome and survival in patients treated with non-invasive or invasive ventilation. Practical considerations and ethical concerns are delineated with discussion on how these may be affected by the advent of new therapies such as Nusinersen.

Identification of sleep hypoventilation in young individuals with Becker muscular dystrophy: A pilot study

AIM

To report on sleep hypercapnia in Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) at earlier stages than ever recognized.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This retrospective study examined nocturnal hypercapnia in six young Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) patients with deletions of one or more exons of DMD gene. Clinical information, consecutive data on forced vital capacity (FVC%), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1%), peak expiratory flow (PEF%), peak cough flow (PCF), average PCO₂ in all-night monitoring, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were reviewed.

RESULTS

In five BMD patients, including three who were still ambulant, nocturnal average PCO₂ was elevated to >45 mmHg at 12-31 years of age. Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation was initiated in four patients. Gradual declines in FVC% and PEF% were evident in one BMD patient with exon 3-7 deletion, whereas these functions did not change in the remaining BMD patients. PCF, FEV1%, and LVEF were less informative for the assessment of respiratory function in this patient series.

CONCLUSION

Sleep hypercapnia was present in certain BMD patients, which was unexpected from the routine pulmonary function tests. Individualized assessment of nocturnal PCO₂, partly based on the deletion types, should be further explored in the clinical practice of BMD patients.

Long-term home non-invasive positive pressure ventilation in children: Results from a single center in Japan

BACKGROUND

Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) in children has recently increased worldwide and is used not only for neuromuscular diseases but for various other diseases. However, there have been few observational studies on long-term NPPV in children in Japan.

METHODS

Based on medical records, we retrospectively evaluated patients aged ≤20 years who were initiated long-term NPPV at our hospital from January 2001 to December 2015.

RESULTS

A total of 53 patients on long-term NPPV were identified; 38 (72%) had severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID). Compared to those with non-neuromuscular diseases, those with neuromuscular diseases had significantly more planned initiations and less frequent use of oxygen. Regarding patient outcome, 34 patients continued NPPV (64%), and there were three discontinues (6%), seven tracheostomies (13%), and nine deaths (17%). The continuation rate was high among those with neuromuscular disorders (15/19 cases, 79%) and that of tracheotomy was high in those with metabolic/degenerative diseases (3/9 cases, 33%). Ten patients transitioned to adult care, accounting for 29% of the 34 continuing patients.

CONCLUSION

This is the first observational study on long-term NPPV use in children in Japan that examined outcomes in patients with a range of disorders. The initiation situation, management, and outcomes differed between patients with neuromuscular and non-neuronal muscular diseases. Long-term use of NPPV is possible in many cases, including children with SMID, but can be challenging to continue in patients with progressive diseases such as metabolic/degenerative diseases. Careful discussions regarding the management of each patient are necessary.

Key paediatric messages from the 2017 European Respiratory Society International Congress

In this article, the group chairs of the Paediatric Assembly of the European Respiratory Society (ERS) highlight some of the most interesting findings presented at the 2017 ERS International Congress, which was held in Milan, Italy.

'I'm almost never sick': Everyday life experiences of children and young people with home mechanical ventilation

Developments in medical technology and treatment have increased the survival rates of children with serious illnesses or injuries, including those receiving home mechanical ventilation, which is a small but growing group. The aim of this study was to explore everyday life experiences of children and young people living with home mechanical ventilation (HMV). Data were obtained through interviews with nine participants. The interviews were supported by photovoice methodology: photographs taken by the participants before or during the interviews were used to facilitate conversation. Interview data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings revealed that everyday life on a ventilator can be described as including power but simultaneously as characterized by vulnerability to the outside world, comparable to balancing on a tightrope. Various types of technology, both information and communication technology (ICT) and vital medical technology, enabled the participants to engage with the world around them. This study contributes knowledge about the experiences of children and young people with HMV, who depict their lives as good and valuable. The study also underscores, when designing plans and home support, it is necessary to take a sensible approach to personal experiences of what a good life is and what resources are needed to attain and maintain health.

The Optiflow™ interface for chronic CPAP use in children

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is being increasingly used in children of all age ranges. The limited number of commercially available masks especially in infants and young children may complicate its use and compliance. In this report, we describe our experience with the use of the Optiflow™ (Fisher and Paykel Healthcare) Nasal Cannula attached to a regular CPAP device in the setting of chronic CPAP use. This interface consists of a nasal cannula and was originally designed for the delivery of high-flow oxygen therapy. We could show an objective improvement in breathing parameters in several children selected for CPAP mainly because of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). However, this interface cannot be used for bilevel non-invasive ventilation due to insufficient triggering.