A multicenter randomized trial of computer-driven protocolized weaning from mechanical ventilation

Abstract

Rationale and objectives: Duration of weaning from mechanical ventilation may be reduced by the use of a systematic approach. We assessed whether a closed-loop knowledge-based algorithm introduced in a ventilator to act as a computer-driven weaning protocol can improve patient outcomes as compared with usual care.

Methods and measurements: We conducted a multicenter randomized controlled study with concealed allocation to compare usual care for weaning with computer-driven weaning. The computerized protocol included an automatic gradual reduction in pressure support, automatic performance of spontaneous breathing trials (SBT), and generation of an incentive message when an SBT was successfully passed. One hundred forty-four patients were enrolled before weaning initiation. They were randomly allocated to computer-driven weaning or to physician-controlled weaning according to local guidelines. Weaning duration until successful extubation and total duration of ventilation were the primary endpoints.

Main results: Weaning duration was reduced in the computer-driven group from a median of 5 to 3 d (p=0.01) and total duration of mechanical ventilation from 12 to 7.5 d (p=0.003). Reintubation rate did not differ (23 vs. 16%, p=0.40). Computer-driven weaning also decreased median intensive care unit (ICU) stay duration from 15.5 to 12 d (p=0.02) and caused no adverse events. The amount of sedation did not differ between groups. In the usual care group, compliance to recommended modes and to SBT was estimated, respectively, at 96 and 51%.

Conclusions: The specific computer-driven system used in this study can reduce mechanical ventilation duration and ICU length of stay, as compared with a physician-controlled weaning process.

Figure 1

Flow chart of the study. This chart shows the results of daily screening for study inclusion in the five participating centers during the study period. Mean duration of center participation was 171 days (range, 79 to 284 days). PS denotes pressure support and CDW computer-driven weaning.

Figure 2

Kaplan-Meier analysis of weaning time until successful extubation or death after inclusion for all included patients, in each study group. CDW denotes computer-driven weaning.