Assessment of the Effectivity of Total-face Mask for Noninvasive Ventilation During Acute Respiratory Failure

Total-face mask may improve the efficacy of NIV compared to conventional face mask in patients with acute respiratory failure due to enhanced tolerance and the allowance of higher airway pressure without massive leaks.MAIN OBJECTIVE: To assess, in acute respiratory failure patients, whether the total-face mask reduce the intubation rate. METHODS: 300 patients admitted in the ICU for acute respiratory failure needing continuous noninvasive mechanical ventilation. The type of mask (total-face vs. conventional face mask) will be randomized. Defined failure criteria and weaning technique will be used.