A BiPAP is a machine that blows air at the mouth and nose. It increases tidal volume like the IPPB but it also provides resistance during exhalation.

With BiPAP:

• Bi indicates that it works during both phases of breathing
• PAP indicates positive airway pressure.

BiPAP pushes against exhaled breath too, so the alveoli stay inflated even when the patient is exhaling.

The benefit of PEEP (Positive end expiratory pressure) is the same, only better. It opens alveoli through exhalation, even when interstitial fluid (ARDS) is trying to collapse them.

IPPB is Intermittent Positive Pressure Breathing, i.e., positive pressure when the patient inhales.

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