Bench studies evaluating devices for non-invasive ventilation: critical analysis and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIV) is increasingly utilized in clinical practice.
• Numerous ventilators and interfaces for NIV have been introduced, necessitating performance evaluations.
• Bench studies comparing NIV devices are vital for informed equipment acquisition but often lack consistency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss technical aspects influencing discrepancies in bench studies of NIV devices.
• To provide clinicians with valuable information on ventilators and interfaces for NIV.
• To identify factors contributing to inconsistent performance comparisons of NIV equipment.

Main Methods:

• Review of bench evaluation studies for NIV devices.
• Focus on specific technical aspects: lung models, inspiratory demand simulation, respiratory system properties, air leaks, ventilator modes, and interface performance.
• Analysis of methodologies for assessing trigger function, cycling, and pressurization rates.

Main Results:

• Lack of clear impact from different test lung models.
• Absence of standard references for simulated demand, air leaks, respiratory system properties, and ventilator settings.
• Variability in criteria for assessing trigger function, I:E cycling, pressurization rates, and inconsistent terminology.

Conclusions:

• Consistent experimental settings are needed to improve bench assessment of NIV devices.
• Uniform terminology and standard measurement criteria are essential for reliable performance comparisons.
• Standardization will enhance the evaluation of characteristics and performance of NIV ventilators and interfaces.