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ARDS Treatment Protocol

Lung-protective mechanical ventilation in acute respiratory distress syndrome

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is ARDS Treatment Protocol?

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is severe hypoxemic respiratory failure secondary to bilateral pulmonary edema. Per the Berlin definition, it is classified by PaO2/FiO2 ratio as mild (200-300), moderate (100-200), and severe (less than 100).

Lung-protective ventilation (tidal volume 6 mL/kg ideal body weight, plateau pressure under 30 cmH2O) is the cornerstone strategy that reduces mortality. Prone positioning improves oxygenation in moderate-to-severe ARDS and increases survival.

Symptoms

Acute-onset severe hypoxemia
Bilateral pulmonary infiltrates
Respiratory failure not fully explained by cardiac failure
Tachypnea and use of accessory respiratory muscles
PaO2/FiO2 less than 300 with PEEP at least 5 cmH2O

Risk Factors

Pneumonia (most frequent cause)
Sepsis
Aspiration
Trauma and massive transfusion
Pancreatitis
Toxic inhalation

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Acute hypoxemia plus bilateral infiltrates — ICU admission
  • Moderate-to-severe ARDS (PaO2/FiO2 less than 200) — early prone positioning
  • Worsening on mechanical ventilation

Treatment Methods

01
Lung-protective ventilation (tidal volume 6 mL/kg IBW)
02
PEEP titration using FiO2-PEEP table
03
Plateau pressure target under 30 cmH2O
04
Prone positioning (at least 16 hours per day when PaO2/FiO2 less than 150)
05
Neuromuscular blockade in the first 48 hours in severe ARDS
06
VV-ECMO in severe ARDS refractory to conventional therapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.