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A non-invasive ventilator that provides breathing support administered through a face mask, nasal mask, or a helmet. Air, usually with added oxygen, is given through the mask under positive pressure; generally the amount of pressure is alternated depending on whether someone is breathing in or out. It is termed 'non-invasive' because it is delivered with a mask that is tightly fitted to the face or around the head, but without a need for tracheal Intubation (a tube through the mouth into the windpipe). While there are similarities with regards to the interface, NIV is not the same as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAPVentilator), which applies a single level of positive airway pressure throughout the whole respiratory cycle; CPAP does not deliver ventilation but is occasionally used in conditions also treated with NIV. Non-invasive ventilation is used in acute respiratory failure caused by a number of medical conditions, most prominently ChronicObstructivePulmonaryDisease (COPD). [from Wikipedia]
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