Volume-controlled ventilation versus pressure-controlled ventilation with volume guarantee in emergency surgery: A randomized controlled trial.
Nitin Jassal, Sulagna Bhattacharjee, Nitin Choudhary et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of pressure-controlled ventilation with volume guarantee versus volume-controlled ventilation in 106 adults undergoing emergency laparotomy. The primary outcome, assessed by the Melbourne Group Score version 2, showed no significant difference between groups (0 vs 1, P = .53), indicating that while respiratory mechanics improved with pressure-controlled ventilation, it did not reduce postoperative pulmonary complications.
Key findings
- Median Melbourne Group Score version 2 was 0 in the pressure-controlled group and 1 in the volume-controlled group (P = .53).
- Postoperative pulmonary complications (score ≥ 3) occurred in 3.8% of the pressure-controlled group versus 17% in the volume-controlled group.
- Pressure-controlled ventilation improved respiratory system compliance and reduced mechanical power and driving pressure.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of different ventilation strategies on postoperative outcomes is crucial for optimizing care in high-risk surgical patients. This study highlights the need for further research to clarify the clinical significance of improved respiratory mechanics.
What to keep in mind
The study was conducted at a single center with a limited sample size, necessitating validation in larger trials.