Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation for bilateral diaphragm paralysis after pediatric cardiac surgery.

We present the case histories of two children having respiratory failure due to bilateral diaphragm paralysis after cardiac surgery. In both children non-invasive positive pressure ventilation alleviated respiratory distress, improved gas exchange, and prevented the need for endotracheal intubation. Following unilateral recovery of diaphragmatic function both children were successfully weaned from non-invasive positive pressure ventilation.