[Boussignac CPAP in diagnostic-therapeutic procedures in the critical patient]

Boussignac valve is a new resource to consider in acute pulmonary edema cardiogenic management. As it generates positive airways pressure continuous (CPAP) and it is very simple to use, its use is being extended to emergency, urgency and hospitalization ward services. This valve is a small tube placed over the interface expiratory port. The gas flow (oxygen/air) accelerates when it crosses through four microchannels in the valve wall, pressurizing the bronchial tree by the principle of the energy in movement. It has a functioning, not hermetic system, allowing the passage of a catheter through it to help the patient (to drink, to eat, to aspirate, etc.). These characteristics make it possible to extend it use in those patients who, in extreme conditions, need diagnostic tests that could deteriorate their respiratory situation, such as endoscopy procedures. We report three critical patients who received CPAP with a Boussignac valve connected to an orofacial interface, while performing two fibrobronchoscopies and one upper digestive tract endoscopy. All finished successfully and none of them need orotracheal intubation.