Home mechanical ventilation in children: evolving indications in an era of new treatment options

Abstract

Worldwide, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of paediatric home mechanical ventilation (HMV). In this review, we examine this rapid evolution in clinical practice through the prism of two distinct groups of children: those with neurodisability/medical complexity and patients with neuromuscular disease. We illustrate the changes in service provision for these two groups that are driven by a recognition that early intervention with HMV can enhance quality of life for these children and may complement the beneficial effects of novel disease-modifying medications to improve survival. Alongside this, we highlight the importance of balancing patient expectations with clinical need and discuss the ethical challenges that may be encountered when delivering HMV to this increasing population of children.; Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: All authors have nothing to disclose. (Copyright ©The authors 2024.)