Non-Ventilatory Co-Factors of Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury

Abstract

Numerous experimental studies demonstrate key aspects of mechanical ventilation which initiate or exacerbate acute lung injury, characterized by proteinaceous edema, inflammation, and hemorrhage. The great majority of these investigations into Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury (VILI) have focused on the characteristics of mechanical ventilation directly regulated by the clinician, including the individual tidal cycle-tidal volume, inspiratory flow rate, driving Pressure and End-Expiratory airway Pressure (PEEP).