Dtsch Arztebl Int
-
To accommodate the increasing number of patients requiring prolonged weaning from mechanical ventilation, specialized weaning centers have been established for patients in whom weaning on the intensive care unit (ICU) was unsuccessful. ⋯ Weaning duration has decreased over time, but prolonged weaning is still unsuccessful in one third of patients.Overall, the results warrant the establishment of specialized weaning centers. Variables associated with death and weaningfailure can be integrated into ICU decision-making processes.