What is Mechanical Ventilation?

Mechanical ventilation is a critical life-support system that assists patients in breathing when they cannot do so independently.

This support is essential during surgeries or severe illnesses that affect the respiratory system.

While mechanical ventilation does not directly treat the underlying conditions, it stabilizes patients, allowing other medical treatments and medications to take effect.

What is a Ventilator?

A ventilator is a specialized machine designed to facilitate breathing.

It provides oxygen to the lungs and helps eliminate carbon dioxide, ensuring the patient maintains adequate respiratory function.

The ventilator generates positive pressure, keeping the tiny air sacs in the lungs, known as alveoli, open and preventing collapse.

Doctors can adjust the ventilator settings to meet each patient's needs, customizing the required support levels based on their medical condition.

How is Mechanical Ventilation Different from Intubation?

Intubation and mechanical ventilation often occur simultaneously but are distinct processes.

Intubation refers to inserting a tube into the airway (trachea) to secure the airway for ventilation.

Once the tube is in place, it is connected to the ventilator, which delivers the necessary air and oxygen.

In some cases, non-invasive methods such as a face mask may be used instead of intubation, particularly for less severely affected patients.

Who Needs Mechanical Ventilation?

Mechanical ventilation may be necessary for various patient populations, including:

• Surgical Patients: Patients receiving general anesthesia may need mechanical ventilation because their capacity to breathe deeply and effectively is diminished during the procedure.
• Individuals with Lung Conditions: Conditions such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can significantly impair lung function, necessitating mechanical ventilation.
• Medical Emergencies: Situations that obstruct the airway or severely impair breathing, such as anaphylaxis or trauma, may require immediate ventilatory support.
• Brain Injuries or Conditions: Certain brain injuries or neurological disorders can impair the brain's ability to effectively signal the body to breathe, making mechanical ventilation mandatory to assist with respiratory function.
• Conditions Causing Imbalanced Blood Gases: Patients suffering from hypercapnia (too much carbon dioxide) or hypoxemia (insufficient oxygen) may also need ventilatory support.

What to Expect During Mechanical Ventilation?

The duration of mechanical ventilation varies depending on the underlying medical condition and the patient's response to treatment.

It can sometimes range from a few hours to several weeks or longer.

Typically, patients requiring prolonged ventilation will be monitored in an intensive care unit (ICU) by a specialized team of healthcare professionals, including respiratory therapists, critical care physicians, and nurses.

During mechanical ventilation, patients cannot eat or drink normally. Instead, they receive nutrition through a tube that goes into the stomach and intravenous fluids.

The medical team will also perform regular assessments to evaluate patients' ability to breathe independently, testing their readiness to be weaned off the ventilator.

Doctors will take necessary precautions to minimize risks associated with mechanical ventilation, such as infections or lung injury, and adjust treatments based on the patient's evolving needs.

Take Control of Your Health

At Unity Gastro and Liver Hospital, we prioritize your health and well-being. If you or a loved one needs specialized medical care, please don't hesitate to seek assistance. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of your medical journey and ensure you receive the best care possible.