Tidal Volume Lower than 6 ml/kg Enhances Lung Protection

Abstract

LIMITATION of tidal volume (V^T) to 6 ml/kg predicted body weight (PBW) and of end-inspiratory plateau pressure (P^PLAT) to a maximum of 30 cm H²O represents the standard for mechanical ventilation of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).1,2 However, recent studies found that (1) tidal hyperinflation may occur in some patients despite limiting V^Tto 6 ml/kg and P^PLATto 30 cm H²O³, (2) ARDS patients may benefit from V^Treduction even if they already have P^PLAT< 30 cm H²O.4