Lung
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Utilization of intensive care services by patients with malignancy has risen during the past several decades. Newer cancer therapies have improved overall survival and outcomes. Patients with respiratory failure from central airway obstruction related to tumor growth were previously viewed as inappropriate candidates for ventilator support. However, an increasing number of reports suggest that interventional pulmonary (IP) procedures may benefit such patients. ⋯ Although data are limited, IP procedures are generally safe and should be considered for appropriate patients with respiratory failure from malignancy-associated central airway obstruction as a potential means of liberation from mechanical ventilation.