What does NAVA mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) is a new way to provide mechanical ventilation. It uses electrical signals from the patient's diaphragm to automatically adjust the amount of pressure provided by the ventilator.

NAVA uses electromyographic (EMG) signals from the patient's diaphragm to detect their respiratory drive and then adjusts the level of pressure support delivered by the ventilator in response. This allows for a more personalized and adaptive approach to providing ventilator support so that each breath is adjusted according to each individual's needs.

The use of NAVA has been shown to reduce sedation requirements, improve patient comfort, reduce rates of complications associated with mechanical ventilation and allow earlier extubation when compared with traditional methods of delivering mechanical ventilation.

Yes, research has shown that NAVA is both safe and effective. The majority of studies have found that it reduces complications associated with mechanical ventilation such as pneumothorax, barotrauma, tracheal erosion, air leaks and atelectasis.

NAVA may be beneficial for patients who require long-term mechanical ventilation or who are at risk for developing respiratory failure due to chronic conditions such as COPD or neuromuscular diseases.