What tidal volumes should be used in patients without acute lung injury?

Marcus J. Schultz, Jack J. Haitsma, Arthur S. Slutsky, Ognjen Gajic

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

202 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mechanical ventilation practice has changed over the past few decades, with tidal volumes (VT) decreasing significantly, especially in patients with acute lung injury (ALI). Patients without acute lung injury are still ventilated with large-and perhaps too large-VT. Studies of ventilator-associated lung injury in subjects without ALI demonstrate inconsistent results. Retrospective clinical studies, however, suggest that the use of large VT favors the development of lung injury in these patients. Side effects associated with the use of lower VT in patients with ALI seem to be minimal. Assuming that this will be the case in patients without ALI/acute respiratory distress syndrome too, the authors suggest that the use of lower VT should be considered in all mechanically ventilated patients whether they have ALI or not. Prospective studies should be performed to evaluate optimal ventilator management strategies for patients without ALI.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1226-1231
Number of pages6
JournalAnesthesiology
Volume106
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2007

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine

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