Ultrasonographic assessment of the diaphragm TF is a non-invasive method that may prove useful in evaluating diaphragmatic function and its contribution to respiratory workload in intensive care unit patients.

Markedly reducing pressure support or inspiratory duration to reach a tidal volume of about 6 ml/kg predicted body weight eliminated ineffective triggering in two-thirds of patients with weaning difficulties and a high percentage of ineffective efforts without inducing excessive work of breathing or modifying patient respiratory rate.

No abstract

Technical performance of trigger function, pressurization capacity, and expiratory resistance differs considerably across new-generation ICU ventilators. ICU ventilators seem to have reached a technical ceiling in recent years, and some ventilators still perform inadequately.

Our results suggest that increasing both the pressure-support level and positive end-expiratory pressure and using the highest pressurization rate may be advisable when providing NPSV via a helmet.

The difference between preset V (T) and actually delivered V (T) is clinically meaningful and differs across modern ICU ventilators.

No abstract

This study provides data on the level of humidity delivered with different humidification strategies during NIV and CPAP. HH and HME provide gas with the highest water content. Comfort data suggest that levels above 15 mgH(2)O/l are well tolerated. In favorable conditions, HH and HMEs are capable of providing such values, even in the presence of leaks.