What Is the Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis When Respiratory Failure Develops?

This protocol addresses the management of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), including specific guidance for the clinical situation in which respiratory failure is a consideration. The approach covers both surgical candidacy evaluation and supportive care pathways.

Evaluation for lung transplantation is one of the management pathways covered in this protocol. For patients who develop respiratory failure, the protocol includes specific, evidence-based guidance on the appropriate role of ventilatory support — and the circumstances in which it may not be indicated.

The complete clinical algorithm — including full eligibility criteria, sequencing, and all management steps — is available in the structured protocol below.