Swiss medical weekly
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Present evidence demonstrates that mechanical ventilation in patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) contributes to the ongoing pulmonary damage, a condition known as "ventilator lung". Data from various animal studies indicate that volume, rather than pressure, is probably the main culprit. ⋯ Moreover, there is an added risk of atelectasis, which can be prevented by the application of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). The present study reviews the pathophysiological mechanisms by which mechanical ventilation is injurious to the lung, and attempts to outline an approach aimed at minimizing such damage.