26/02/2026
The "Single Value" Trap in Monitoring.
We often look for a quick number to tell us if therapy is working. But in Non-Invasive Ventilation, Average Total Leaks (Single Value) is difficult to interpret in isolation due to variables like pressure and different types of leaks.
To optimize , we must look deeper.
Our new publication, "Monitoring Leaks in NIV," breaks down exactly how to interpret leak trends and waveforms using Breas ventilators.
KEY CLINICAL DEFINITIONS:
🔹 TOTAL LEAKS Comprise both intentional and unintentional leaks. The ventilator estimates the end-expiratory total leak by assuming the patient is passive at the end of expiration.
🔹 UNINTENTIONAL LEAKS Undesirable leaks often causing patient discomfort, reduced adherence, poor patient-ventilator synchrony, disturbed sleep, and inaccurate monitoring.
INTERPRETING THE WAVEFORMS When analyzing the data, look for these specific patterns:
► Positional Leaks: Characterized by abrupt changes in leak, usually occurring when the patient shifts position and dislodges the mask.
► Small Spikes of Leaks: Frequently correlate with upper airway obstructions, signaling respiratory events rather than a primary mask leak issue.
► Mouth Leaks: Long-duration, progressive leaks suggest muscle relaxation leading to sustained mouth opening.
⚠️ A CRUCIAL LIMITATION
The calculation method tends to underestimate asymmetric inspiratory leaks that occur primarily during inspiration due to higher pressures.
How to detect this: Look for a small plateau at the end of inspiration on the flow waveform.
Read the full guide and clinical cases here: https://www.educationbybreas.com/monitoring-leaks-clinical-cases/