Comparing high-flow oxygen therapy and non-invasive ventilation for respiratory failure

Effects of High-flow Oxygen Therapy and Non-invasive Ventilation on Lung Volumes and on Upper Airway in Hypoxemic Critical Care Patients: a Physiological Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional University Hospital, Montpellier · NCT05643911

This study is testing whether high-flow oxygen therapy or non-invasive ventilation helps critically ill adults with breathing problems improve their lung function better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment56 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Montpellier Academic / other
Locations1 site (Montpellier, Languedoc-Roussillon)
Trial IDNCT05643911 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effects of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC) versus non-invasive ventilation (NIV) on lung volumes in patients experiencing hypoxemic respiratory failure in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Using CT scans, the research will assess whether NIV leads to a greater increase in lung volumes compared to HFNC. The study targets critically ill adults who require oxygen therapy to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels. By comparing these two treatment methods, the study seeks to provide insights into the most effective approach for managing respiratory failure.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are experiencing hypoxemia and require oxygen therapy in the ICU.

Not a fit: Patients who are contraindicated for non-invasive ventilation or those requiring immediate intubation will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve treatment strategies for patients with respiratory failure, potentially reducing ICU mortality rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have explored similar interventions, but this specific comparison of HFNC and NIV in critically ill patients is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient with hypoxemia at any time of ICU stay defined as follow: standard oxygen therapy flow ≥ 3L/min to maintain a pulsed oxygen saturation ≥ 95%
* Adult (age ≥ 18 years)
* (2) A CT scan prescribed by the physician in charge of the patient as part of the exploration of the patient's pathology and not as part of a "dedicated" prescription for the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* NIV contraindication (need for immediate endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation; hemodynamic instability defined by systolic blood pressure \< 90 mmHg or mean blood pressure \< 65 mmHg, use of vasopressors; Glasgow Coma Scale score of 12 points or less)
* History of recent facial trauma not compatible with the use of nasal cannulas
* Pregnancy
* Refusal of study participation
* protected person
* Patient not affiliated to the social security system or not benefiting from such a system
* Lack of signed informed consent

Where this trial is running

Montpellier, Languedoc-Roussillon

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Respiratory Failureintensive carenon-invasive ventilationhigh-flow nasal oxygen therapyhypoxemic respiratory failureupper airway
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.