These results suggest that daily titration of NAVA level with an electrical goal of ~60% EAdi(maxSBT) is feasible and well tolerated. The respiratory mechanics improvement and increase in respiratory drive allowed for a daily reduction of the NAVA level while preserving breathing, oxygenation, and alveolar ventilation until extubation.

These results suggest that in patients after respiratory failure and prolonged mechanical ventilation, changes in VT and NVE, between SBTs are indicative of patient recovery. Larger clinical trials are needed to clarify whether changes in NVE reliably predict weaning in patients ventilated with NAVA.

During weaning from mechanical ventilation, the diaphragmatic contribution to the breathing process may be reduced by residual midazolam-induced ventilatory depression. The increased EAdi with reversal of residual sedation was associated with a proportional increase in VT. These findings should be considered by the attending physician when interpreting daily EAdi and VT changes during weaning from mechanical ventilation.

No abstract