Abstract:

Mechanical ventilation is the main treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Proper spontaneous breathing during mechanical ventilation can promote lung recruitment, improve ventilation/perfusion ratio and oxygenation, reduce diaphragm atrophy and improve organ perfusion. However, strong spontaneous breathing may lead to high transpulmonary pressure and increased pulmonary perfusion, thus aggravating lung injury. To establish a better lung protective ventilation strategy in clinical practice, emphasis should be devoted to the regulation of spontaneous breathing and the suitable mechanical ventilation system should be selected. This article reviews the role of regulating spontaneous breathing in the treatment of mechanical ventilation in ARDS patients.

Key words: acute respiratory distress syndrome, mechanical ventilation, spontaneous breathing