ART-2 Pilot - Driving Pressure Limited Ventilation for Patients With ARDS

We will use volume controlled ventilation or pressure support in the weaning phase. We will adjust tidal volume between 3 and 8 mL/Kg of predicted body weight in order to achieve a driving pressure of 13 cmH2O. The respiratory rate will be titrated to achieve a pH between 7.30 and 7.45 (maximum respiratory rate is 50 breathings per minute). We will not limit plateau pressure in this arm.

ARDSNet Strategy: conventional mechanical ventilation strategy with tidal volume between 4 and 6 mL/kg of predicted body weight and plateau pressure limited to 30 cmH2O.