Abstract
Segmental and lobar pulmonary atelectasis is a common occurrence in mechanically ventilated patients. Standard therapy for atelectasis relies on positive pressure ventilation, positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP), tracheobronchial toilet and regular chest physiotherapy. Various adjuncts to physiotherapy such as bronchoscopic clearance of secretions have not proved to be of additional benefit. Bronchoscopic clearance of secretions followed by insufflation of room air at 30 cm H2O into the atelectatic segment was employed on ten occasions in mechanically ventilated patients. Rapid re-expansion of the collapsed segment or lobe occurred in seven out of the ten treatments.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 175-177 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Anaesthesia and Intensive Care |
Volume | 23 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Apr 1995 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Air
- Atelectasis
- Bronchoscopic insufflation
- Intensive care