How does NIV benefit patients with restrictive thoracic diseases?

Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) offers significant benefits for patients with restrictive thoracic diseases primarily by resting the inspiratory muscles. In restrictive diseases, the ability of the lungs to expand is compromised, leading to difficulty in breathing and an increased workload on respiratory muscles. By providing positive pressure assistance during inhalation, NIV helps reduce the effort needed by these muscles, allowing them to recover and reducing fatigue. This can improve overall respiratory function and patient comfort.

While NIV can aid in improving oxygenation as well, its primary role in this context is more about alleviating the strain on respiratory muscles rather than solely addressing oxygen levels. Additionally, NIV doesn't aim to increase CO2 levels, which can be harmful, nor does it directly reduce the need for medication, as patients may still require pharmacologic management depending on their overall condition. Thus, the benefit of resting inspiratory muscles is central to the effectiveness of NIV in managing restrictive thoracic diseases.