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Review
. 2015 Apr;28(2):163-71.
doi: 10.1080/08998280.2015.11929219.

The acute respiratory distress syndrome

Ariel M Modrykamien  1 , Pooja Gupta  1
Affiliations
Review

The acute respiratory distress syndrome

Ariel M Modrykamien et al. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent). 2015 Apr.

Abstract

The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a major cause of acute respiratory failure. Its development leads to high rates of mortality, as well as short- and long-term complications, such as physical and cognitive impairment. Therefore, early recognition of this syndrome and application of demonstrated therapeutic interventions are essential to change the natural course of this devastating entity. In this review article, we describe updated concepts in ARDS. Specifically, we discuss the new definition of ARDS, its risk factors and pathophysiology, and current evidence regarding ventilation management, adjunctive therapies, and intervention required in refractory hypoxemia.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Graphic representation of the stress index concept. The stress index is the coefficient b of a power equation (airway pressure = a inspiratory time b + c), fitted on the airway opening pressure (Pao) segment (bold lines) corresponding to the period of constant-flow inflation (dotted lines), during constant-flow, volume-cycled mechanical ventilation. For stress index values <1, the Pao curve presents a downward concavity, suggesting a continuous decrease in elastance during constant-flow inflation. For stress index values >1, the curve presents an upward concavity suggesting a continuous increase in elastance. Finally, for a stress index value equal to 1, the curve is straight, suggesting the absence of tidal variations in elastance. Reprinted from Grasso et al, 2007 (41) with permission of the American Thoracic Society. Copyright © American Thoracic Society. The American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine is an official journal of the American Thoracic Society.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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