New modes of mechanical ventilation

Abstract

Advances in microprocessor technology have resulted in increasing sophistication of mechanical ventilators. The other side of the sword of sophistication is complexity. The array of modes and features of mechanical ventilators challenges even the most dedicated clinician to keep current. This article reviews the new modes that have recently been introduced and are currently available. These include dual-control modes of ventilation (volume-assured pressure support, pressure augmentation, volume support, autoflow, adaptive pressure ventilation, pressure-regulated volume control, variable pressure control, and variable pressure support), AutoMode, adaptive support ventilation, and automatic tube compensation. The availability, terminology, operation, pitfalls, and literature regarding each technique are discussed.