Recent advances in mechanical ventilation

Abstract

More than 50% of patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) will receive a period of mechanical ventilation. The primary objective of invasive mechanical ventilation is to support adequate gas exchange during the investigation and treatment of respiratory failure. Applying mechanical ventilation to injured lungs exacerbates parenchymal lung damage and inflammation, and contributes to the high mortality of these patients. The short-term outcome of supporting patients with acute respiratory failure complicating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is generally good.