Lower tidal volume at initiation of mechanical ventilation may reduce progression to acute respiratory distress syndrome

Lower tidal volume at initiation of mechanical ventilation may reduce progression to acute respiratory distress syndrome: A systematic review. Critical care, 2013, 17: R11.

Fuller, B.M., et al.

http://ccforum.com/content/17/1/R11/abstract

The most appropriate tidal volume in patients without acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is controversial, and has not been rigorously examined. The objective was to determine whether a mechanical ventilation strategy using lower tidal volume is associated with a decreased incidence of progression to ARDS when compared to a higher tidal volume strategy.