Thermography as a tool for monitoring the interface between the noninvasive ventilation mask and the skin

1. Serviço de Pneumologia e de Terapia Intensiva, Hospital Universitário, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora (MG) Brasil. Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is an important supportive measure for patients with acute respiratory failure. In patients with COPD exacerbation or acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema, for example, NIV is associated with reduced mortality and decreased need for intubation, its use therefore being recommended.(1) In patients with asthma or pneumonia, as well as in the prevention of weaning failure, NIV has been reported to improve clinical and functional parameters and can be used on the basis of clinical judgment.(2)