Non-invasive ventilation to avoid tracheal intubation in a patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
A 72-yr-old man presented with respiratory failure secondary to Guillain-Barré syndrome. Although the criteria for mechanical ventilation were satisfied, the absence of weakness of the bulbar muscles allowed the safe use of non-invasive ventilation for 2 weeks in this patient. Invasive ventilation and tracheostomy were avoided and the patient made a good recovery.
Pearse
R M
RM
Intensive Care Unit, St James Wing, St George's Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK. rupert.pearse@doctors.net.uk
Draper
A
A
Grounds
R M
RM
D000368:Aged; D000075202:Contraindications; D020275:Guillain-Barre Syndrome / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal; D008297:Male; D011175:Positive-Pressure Respiration / Q000379:methods*; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000628:therapy*