Controversies in Mechanical Ventilation, An Issue of Clinics in Chest Medicine

Topics will include:: How should the tidal volume be set? Is 6 ml/kg the best for all patients?, How should PEEP and FiO2 be set? Mechanics vs. gas exchange vs. other approaches, Can the weaning/withdrawal process be automated?, When should a tracheostomy be placed?, Are the new modes APRV and HFV of value in ALI/ARDS?, How best to deliver aerosol medications to mechanically ventilated patients?, Do newer monitors of exhaled gases, mechanics, and esophageal pressure add value?, Can VAP be prevented?, Do ventilator protocols hinder or help teaching?, Does central venous oxygenation monitoring improve mechanical ventilatory support?, PAV and NAVA - better approaches to patient ventilator synchrony?, and Does closed loop control of assist control ventilation reduce VILI?