Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) frequently involves the development of facial pressure ulcers (FPU). Its prevention considers the empirical use of protective patches between skin and mask, in order to reduce the pressure exerted by it.
Objectives: To evaluate the effect of protective patches on the pressure exerted by the facial mask, and its impact on the programmed ventilatory parameters.
Method: Bilevel NIV simulated model using full face mask in phantom with a physiological airway (ALS PRO +) in supine position. Forehead, chin and cheekbones pressure were measured using 3 types of standard protective patches versus a control group using pressure sensors (Interlinks Electronics®). The values obtained with the protective patches-mask model were evaluated in the programmed variables maximum inspiratory flow (MIF)), expired tidal volume (Vte) and positive inspiratory pressure (IPAP), with Trilogy 100 ventilator, Respironics®. The programming and recording of the variables was carried out in 8 opportunities in each group by independent operators.
Results: There was no decrease in facial pressure with any of the protective patches compared to the control group. Moltopren increased facial pressure at all support points (p < 0.001), increased leakage, it decreased MIF, Vte and IPAP (p < 0.001). Hydrocolloid patches increased facial pressure only in the left cheekbone, increased leakage and decreased MIF. Polyurethane patches did not produce changes in facial pressure or ventilatory variables.
Conclusion: The use of protective patches of moltopren, hydrocolloid and polyurethane transparent did not contribute to the decrease of the facial pressure. A deleterious effect of the moltopren and hydrocolloid patches was observed on the administration of ventilatory variables, concluding that the non-use of the protective patches allowed a better administration of the programmed parameters.