Successful application of helmet non-invasive ventilation in a parturient with acute respiratory distress syndrome

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy. The case of a twin pregnant woman in her 28(th) week who developed infection-related ARDS, undergoing a cesarean section for premature membrane rupture is described. It was performed epidural anaesthesia and helmet non-invasive ventilation (NIV) during the postoperative period. The combination of epidural anesthesia with NIV helped to restore physiological gas-exchange and to prevent common complications associated with a more invasive approach.