Design Features of Modern Mechanical Ventilators

Abstract

A positive-pressure breath ideally should provide a V_T that is adequate for gas exchange and appropriate muscle unloading while minimizing any risk for injury or discomfort. The latest generation of ventilators uses sophisticated feedback systems to sculpt positive-pressure breaths according to patient effort and respiratory system mechanics. Currently, however, these new control strategies are not totally closed-loop systems. This is because the automatic input variables remain limited, some clinician settings are still required, and the specific features of the perfect breath design still are not entirely clear. Despite these limitations, there are some rationale for many of these newer feedback features.

Keywords: Closed-loop control; Mechanical ventilation; Modes of ventilation; Patient–ventilator interactions; Ventilator-induced lung injury.