Bilevel nasal positive airway pressure and ballooning of the stomach

Chest. 2001 Jun;119(6):1965-6. doi: 10.1378/chest.119.6.1965.

Abstract

We describe a case of severe gastric insufflation in a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis who was receiving bilevel nasal positive airway pressure (BNPAP) ventilation (BiPAP; Respironics; Murrysville, PA). The injection of inspiratory flow into the esophagus, aerophagia, and air trapping below the gastroesophageal junction after a meal are probably the major causes. We suggest that BNPAP ventilation can be a cause of serious gastric insufflation in a patient who lies supine, especially after a meal, and attention should be paid to avoiding this complication by having the patient sit up for about half an hour after a meal.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / complications
  • Emphysema / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Positive-Pressure Respiration / adverse effects*
  • Posture
  • Stomach Diseases / etiology*