The Clinical Feasibility and Validity of PMIvent to Access Inspiratory Effort During Pressure Support Ventilation

Baseline ventilators were set by the principle of keeping VT/PBW at 6-8ml/kg and RR at 20-30 breaths/min and the decision of the responsible ICU physician. After then the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), positive expiratory end pressure (PEEP), trigger sensitivity, and cycle-off criteria remain unchanged. Downward PS level titration was performed from 20 cmH2O to 2 cmH2O at a 2cm H2O interval. Every PS level was maintained for 20 minutes and then three end-inspiratory holdings (2-3seconds) and three end-expiratory holdings were performed. To avoid additional injury to the lung and diaphragm, the airway peak pressure (Ppeak) was limited to 30cmH2O.Inspiratory effort is measured as pressure generated by inspiratory muscles using esophageal pressure monitoring.