[Treatment of severe cardiogenic pulmonary edema with continuous positive-pressure ventilation using a cuffed cannula...

We report the use of a cuffed oropharyngeal airway (Copa), in a patient with an acute respiratory failure from a cardiogenic pulmonary oedema, for continuous positive pressure ventilation. Considering the ease of use and the lack of laryngeal stimulation, this device can be considered for mechanical ventilation in selected cases with acute cardiac failure. There are two contra-indications: prolonged mechanical ventilation, because of the lack of airway protection from gastro-oesophageal reflux, and normal consciousness, as the patient cannot swallow. This device can be considered when starting intensive therapy including mechanical ventilation in patients with acute respiratory failure of foreseen short duration.