Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIV) in acute respiratory failure (ARF) - pro and con debate

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Chairs: B. Schönhofer (Hanover, Germany), T. Welte (Hanover, Germany)
Aims: This symposium will:
• present the latest information, i.e. increase the current knowledge about the topic;
• show treatment options and limitations of NIV;
• discuss methodological difficulties of the available paper.

NIV as “starter” in all patients with acute hypoxic respiratory failure - Pro M. Antonelli (Rome, Italy)
NIV as “starter” in all patients with acute hypoxic respiratory failure - Con S. Keenan (British Columbia, Canada)
NIV in all postoperative patients after extensive surgery - Pro P. Pelosi (Milan, Italy)
NIV in all postoperative patients after extensive surgery - Con R. Kuhlen (Berlin, Germany)