JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, TX  –   A significant research study, made possible through a Defense Health Agency Restoral program grant in collaboration with the 59th Medical Wing, was published in the New England Journal of Medicine, June 13, 2024.

The article, titled "Noninvasive Ventilation for Preoxygenation During Emergency Intubation," presents critical advancements in the field of emergency medicine, highlighting the effectiveness of noninvasive ventilation in reducing hypoxemia during intubation of critically ill adults. The research, which could transform current clinical practices, was conducted by a dedicated team across 24 emergency medicine departments and intensive care units in the United States.

The multicenter clinical trial involved 1,301 critically ill adults, all aged 18 or older. These patients were randomly assigned to receive preoxygenation either with noninvasive ventilation or an oxygen mask. The focus of the study was to see how many patients experienced hypoxemia during intubation. Hypoxemia was defined as having an oxygen saturation level below 85% from the start of anesthesia until two minutes after intubation.

According to the researchers, the results revealed that patients who received noninvasive ventilation had much lower rates of hypoxemia compared to those who used an oxygen mask. This finding is especially important because hypoxemia during intubation can lead to serious problems like cardiac arrest and death.

Traditionally, most critically ill adults are given an oxygen mask for preoxygenation. However, this study suggests that noninvasive ventilation might be a better option, offering a safer and more effective way to manage these patients.

These findings are significant because they suggest a new way to improve patient care during intubation, potentially saving lives and reducing complications. The study's success demonstrates a critical advancement in medical practices and highlights the importance of ongoing research and innovation.

This publication is a testament to the collaborative efforts and innovative research spearheaded by the 59th MDW Chief Scientist’s Office and their partners, including the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research and Brooke Army Medical Center (Joint Base San Antonio–Fort Sam Houston) and the 59th Medical Wing (Joint Base San Antonio–Lackland). Researchers teamed with the Center for COMBAT Research University of Colorado School of Medicine and alliance of medical centers across the country.

This group effort to advance medical research and improve patient care outcomes has led to these important findings, which are set to influence clinical protocols and enhance the safety and efficacy of intubation procedures.

The insights gained from this study are already paving the way for improved clinical practices and better patient outcomes. This research marks a significant step forward in the field of critical care and underscores the critical importance of continued innovation and collaboration between clinical researchers at Defense Health Agency major medical institutions and civilian medical centers.

To read the study, visit: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2313680