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Non Invasive Ventilation (NIV) refers to the delivery of mechanical ventilation using a face mask or similar device, rather than an endotracheal tube. A major driving force behind the increasing use of NIV has been the desire to avoid complications caused by invasive ventilation, such as infections and airway trauma. NIV also shortens the hospital stay thus reducing the treatment cost for the patient. When using NIV, the patient is able to speak and eat under relatively normal circumstances, which are important factors for patient self-esteem.

[edit] Further reading

• MAQUET. "Modes of ventilation in SERVO-i, Invasive and Non-Invasive", 2008 Maquet Critical Care AB, Order No 66 14 692
• Carlucci A, Rubini F, Fracchia C, Nava S, "Changes in the practice of non-invasive ventialtion treating COPD patients over 8 years", 2003 Intensive Care Medicine, Mar;29(3):419-25