Can a mask help avoid breathing tubes after surgery?

NCT ID NCT01971892

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using a mask that helps with breathing (non-invasive ventilation) can prevent the need for a breathing tube in patients who develop respiratory failure after abdominal surgery. 300 adults who had abdominal surgery and then had trouble breathing were randomly assigned to receive either the mask or standard oxygen therapy. The main goal was to see if the mask reduced the number of patients needing a breathing tube within 7 days.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) via facial mask

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could reduce the need for breathing tubes and lower complications after abdominal surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a completed trial, but results may not apply to all patients or settings. NIV may not prevent intubation in severe cases.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ACUTE RESPIRATORY FAILURE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Abdominal Injuries acute respiratory failure Hypoxia Postoperative Complications

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care, St Eloi University Hospital

    Montpellier, 34000, France