The effects of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) application on optic nerve sheath diameter in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized trial

Abstract Background: Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) can overcome respiratory changes that occur during pneumoperitoneum application in laparoscopic procedures, but it can also increase intracranial pressure. We investigated PEEP vs. no PEEP application on ultrasound measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter (indirect measure of increased intracranial pressure) in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: Eighty ASA I-II patients aged between 18 and 60 years scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included. The study was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials (ACTRN12618000771257). Patients were randomly divided into either Group C (control, PEEP not applied), or Group P (PEEP applied at 10 cmH20). Optic nerve sheath diameter, hemodynamic, and respiratory parameters were recorded at six different time points. Ocular ultrasonography was used to measure optic nerve sheath diameter. Results: Peak pressure (PPeak) values were significantly higher in Group P after application of PEEP (p = 0.012). Mean respiratory rate was higher in Group C at all time points after application of pneumoperitoneum (p < 0.05). The mean values of optic nerve sheath diameters measured at all time points were similar between the groups (p > 0.05). The pulmonary dynamic compliance value was significantly higher in group P as long as PEEP was applied (p = 0.001). Conclusions: During laparoscopic cholecystectomy, application of 10 cmH2O PEEP did not induce a significant change in optic nerve sheath diameter (indirect indicator of intracranial pressure) compared to no PEEP application. It would appear that PEEP can be used safely to correct

Injuria pulmonar autoinducida por el paciente / Patient self-inflicted lung injury

La Injuria Pulmonar Autoinducida por el Paciente (p-SILI) es una entidad recientemente reconocida. Clásicamente, el daño producido por la ventilación mecánica (VM) se asoció al uso de presión positiva, y para disminuirlo se crearon distintas estrategias conocidas como parámetros de protección pulmonar. Sin embargo, es importante reconocer los potenciales efectos deletéreos de la ventilación espontánea dependientes de la injuria pulmonar previa que sufra el paciente y del esfuerzo que realice. En este artículo se explican los distintos mecanismos que pueden producir p-SILI y las estrategias descritas en la literatura para prevenirla (AU)

Patient self-inflicted lung injury (p-SILI) is a recently recognized disorder. Classically, damage produced by mechanical ventilation (MV) was associated with the use of positive pressure, and different strategies known as lung protection parameters were created to reduce it. Nevertheless, it is important to recognize the potential deleterious effects of the effort made during spontaneous breathing due to previous lung injury suffered by the patient. This article explains the different mechanisms that may produce p-SILI and the prevention strategies described in the literature. (AU)

Factores de riesgo para lesión renal aguda y terapia de reemplazo renal en pacientes con ventilación mecánica invasiva y COVID-19 / Risk factors for acute kidney injury and renal replacement therapy in severe critically ill patients with COVID-19 under invasive mechanical ventilation / Fatores de risco para lesão renal aguda e terapia de substituição renal em pacientes com ventilação mecânica invasiva e COVID-19

Resumen: Introducción: Desde diciembre de 2019, cuando el coronavirus respiratorio tipo 2 y el síndrome de insuficiencia respiratoria agudo (SDRA) por coronavirus tipo 2 (enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 [COVID-19]), se desarrolló en Wuhan, China, se ha convertido en una pandemia mundial, con 105'333.798 casos reportados el 04 de febrero de 2021. El 27 de febrero de 2020, la Ciudad de México reportó el primer caso de COVID-19, seguido de un crecimiento masivo de infecciones en todo el país. El número total de casos hasta hoy es de 1,886.245 con 81,223 casos activos estimados. El 18.77% de los pacientes han requerido hospitalización. El número total de muertes es de 164.290, con una estimación de 184.125. La lesión renal aguda (LRA) se encontró en 28% de los pacientes hospitalizados y en 46% de los pacientes en estado crítico, contribuyendo a una mortalidad significativamente mayor. La identificación de los factores de riesgo es importante para orientar la toma de decisiones tempranas en la clasificación de los pacientes para una monitorización más intensiva y prevenir el aumento de la mortalidad. Objetivo: Analizar el nivel de presión positiva al final de la espiración (PEEP) y factores inflamatorios que intervienen en el desarrollo de LRA e inicio de terapia de reemplazo renal (TRR) en pacientes con COVID-19. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, transversal y retrolectivo en pacientes con ventilación mecánica con SARS-CoV-2 que presentaron LRA y necesidad de TRR ingresados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Respiratorios del Centro Médico ABC. Se realizó análisis estadístico de medidas de tendencia central, descriptivo; para la identificación de la variable con mayor impacto para el desarrollo de LRA y terapia dialítica se realizó factor predictivo positivo, prueba Pearson para correlacionar con terapia de reemplazo renal. El estudio se aprobó por el Comité de Ética del Centro Médico ABC, Ciudad de México (Folio: ABC TAEABC-22-117). Resultados: Se analizaron en total 210 pacientes con ventilación mecánica con SARS-CoV-2 en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Respiratorios del Centro Médico ABC, de los cuales, 51 (24.17%) desarrollaron LRA y 21 requirieron TRR. Se realizó una curva ROC para predecir el factor con mayor riesgo para presentar LRA, encontrando diferencias significativas en IL-6 con un área bajo la curva ROC de 0.909 (CI: 0.86-0.95). También se encontró significancia estadística en LRA a partir de PEEP por arriba de 13 cmH2O y terapia de reemplazo renal con PEEP > 15 cmH2O. Conclusión: Se encontró una correlación de niveles altos de PEEP y lesión renal aguda. Los marcadores inflamatorios al ingreso del paciente (específicamente IL-6) son parámetros adecuados para guiar el tratamiento; sin embargo, también son de utilidad para orientar a un pronóstico.

Abstract: Introduction: Since December 2019, when respiratory coronavirus type 2 and acute respiratory failure syndrome (ARDS) due to coronavirus type 2 (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]), developed in Wuhan, China, it has become a global pandemic, with 105,333,798 cases reported on February 4, 2021. On February 27, 2020, Mexico City reported the first case of COVID-19, followed by a massive growth of infections across the country. The total number of cases today is 1,886,245 with 81,223 estimated active cases. 18.77% of patients have required hospitalization. The total number of deaths is 164,290 with an estimated 184,125. AKI was found in 28% of hospitalized patients and 46% of critically ill patients, contributing to significantly higher mortality. Identification of risk factors is important to guide early decision making in triaging patients for more intensive monitoring and prevent increased mortality. Objective: To analyze the level of PEEP and inflammatory factors involved in the development of AKI and onset of RRT in patients with COVID-19. Material and methods: An observational, cross-sectional and retrolective study was performed in mechanically ventilated patients with SARS-CoV-2 who presented AKI and need for RRT admitted to the respiratory intensive care unit of the ABC Medical Center. Statistical analysis of measures of central tendency, descriptive; for the identification of the variable with the greatest impact for the development of AKI and dialytic therapy, a positive predictive factor was performed, Pearson test to correlate with renal replacement therapy. The study was approved by the ethics committee of the ABC Medical Center, Mexico City (Number: ABC TAEABC-22-117). Results: A total of 210 mechanically ventilated patients with SARS-CoV-2 in the Respiratory Intensive Care Unit of the ABC Medical Center were analyzed, of whom 51 patients (24.17%) developed AKI and 21 patients required RRT. An ROC curve was performed to predict the factor with the highest risk of developing AKI, finding significant differences in IL-6 with an area under the ROC curve of 0.909 (CI: 0.86-0.95). Statistical significance was found in AKI with PEEP above 13cmH2O and renal replacement therapy with PEEP > 15cmH2O. Conclusion: A correlation was found between high PEEP levels and acute kidney injury. Inflammatory markers at patient admission (specifically IL-6) are adequate parameters to guide treatment; however, they are also useful to guide prognosis.

Resumo: Introdução: Desde dezembro de 2019, quando o coronavírus respiratório tipo 2 e a síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo do coronavírus (SDRA) (doença de coronavírus 2019 [COVID-19]), desenvolvida em Wuhan, China, tornou-se uma pandemia em todo o mundo, com 105'333.798 casos relatados em fevereiro 4, 2021. Em 27 de fevereiro de 2020, a Cidade do México relatou o primeiro caso de COVID-19, seguido por um crescimento maciço de infecções em todo o país. O número total de casos até o momento é de 1,886.245, com uma estimativa de 81,223 casos ativos. 18.77% dos pacientes necessitaram de internação. O número total de óbitos é de 164.290, com estimativa de 184.125. A LRA foi encontrada em 28% dos pacientes hospitalizados e 46% dos pacientes críticos, contribuindo para uma mortalidade significativamente maior. A identificação dos fatores de risco é importante para orientar a tomada de decisão precoce na classificação dos pacientes para monitoramento mais intensivo e para evitar o aumento da mortalidade. Objetivo: Analisar o nível de PEEP e fatores inflamatórios envolvidos no desenvolvimento de LRA e início de TRS em pacientes com COVID-19. Material e métodos: Realizou-se um estudo observacional, transversal e retroletivo em pacientes ventilados mecanicamente com SARS-CoV-2 que apresentavam LRA e necessidade de TRS internados na unidade de terapia intensiva respiratória do Centro Médico ABC. Foi realizado análise estatística de medidas de tendência central, descritiva; para identificar a variável de maior impacto no desenvolvimento de LRA e terapia dialítica, realizou-se fator preditivo positivo, o teste de Pearson para correlacionar com a terapia renal substitutiva. O estudo foi aprovado pelo comitê de ética do Centro Médico ABC, Cidade do México (Folio: ABC TAEABC-22-117). Resultados: Foram analisados um total de 210 pacientes com ventilação mecânica com SARS-CoV-2 na unidade de terapia intensiva respiratória do Centro Médico ABC, dos quais 51 pacientes (24.17%) desenvolveram LRA e 21 pacientes requereram TRS. Realizou-se uma curvatura ROC para prever o fator com maior risco para apresentar LRA encontrando diferenças significativas em IL-6 com uma área sob a curvatura ROC de 0.909(CI: 0.86-0.95). Da mesma forma, foi encontrada significância estatística na LRA por PEEP acima de 13 cmH2O e terapia renal substitutiva com PEEP > 15 cmH2O. Conclusão: Encontrou-se uma correlação entre níveis elevados de PEEP e lesão renal aguda. Marcadores inflamatórios na admissão do paciente (especificamente IL-6) são parâmetros adequados para orientar o tratamento; no entanto, eles também são úteis para orientar uma previsão.

Effect of positive end-expiratory pressure on cardiac function in patients with early left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: a prospective cohort study / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To evaluate the effect of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation on cardiac function in patients with early left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy.Methods:Patients who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy under elective general anesthesia from July 2021 to February 2022 at the Subei People's Hospital were enrolled [age 60-75 years old, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade Ⅰ-Ⅱ, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 0.50]. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed before operation, and the peak early diastolic velocity (E peak) and peak late diastolic velocity (A peak) at the mitral ostium were recorded and the E/A and E peak deceleration time (DT) were calculated. Then isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) and early peak mitral annular diastolic velocity (e') were recorded and left ventricular E/e' (LVE/e') was calculated. According to the E/A, mitral e', LVE/e', DT, and IVRT, the patients were divided into early LV diastolic dysfunction group (E/A < 1, mitral e' < 7 cm/s, LVE/e' > 14, DT > 200 ms, and IVRT > 100 ms) and normal cardiac function group (1 < E/A < 2, 160 ms < DT < 240 ms, and 70 ms < IVRT < 90 ms), with 35 patients in each group. Both groups were received fixed 5 cmH 2O (1 cmH 2O≈0.098 kPa) PEEP 5 minutes after the beginning of the pneumoperitoneum until the end of the procedure. A volume controlled ventilation was used with a tidal volume (VT) of 7 ml/kg, an inspired oxygen concentration of 0.60, and an inspiratory to expiratory ratio of 1∶2. Left and right myocardial systolic and diastolic function related parameters, including LVEF, LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), tricuspid annulus plane systolic migration (TAPSE), the peak early diastolic velocity (E peak) at the mitral and tricuspid valve ostia and the peak early diastolic velocity (e') at the corresponding annulus were measured by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before tracheal intubation (T 0), 5 minutes after the pneumoperitoneum (T 1), 5 minutes after PEEP ventilation (T 2), 30 minutes after PEEP ventilation (T 3), and 5 minutes after the end of pneumoperitoneum (T 4), respectively. The left and right ventricular myocardial performance index (LVMPI/RVMPI) was calculated. Results:Finally, 60 patients were included in the analysis, including 28 patients in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group and 32 patients in the normal cardiac function group. Compared with those at T 0, mean arterial pressure (MAP), LVEF, mitral e', LVGLS, tricuspid e' and TAPSE were significantly lower in the normal cardiac function group at T 1, and the early LV diastolic dysfunction group at T 1, T 2, and T 3, and LVMPI, LVE/e', RVE/e', and RVMPI were significantly higher. At T 4, the LVE/e' and the RVE/e' were significantly higher in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group than those at T 0 (LVE/e': 16.52±1.26 vs. 14.32±1.09, and RVE/e': 18.71±1.74 vs. 16.51±1.93, respectively, both P < 0.05), Mitral e' and tricuspid e' were significantly lower than those at T 0 [mitral e' (m/s): 0.07±0.01 vs. 0.09±0.01, tricuspid e' (m/s): 0.06±0.01 vs. 0.08±0.01, both P < 0.05]. Compared with the normal cardiac function group, MAP, LVEF, mitral e', LVGLS, tricuspid e', and TAPSE at T 1, T 2, and T 3 were significantly lower in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group, while LVMPI, LVE/e', RVE/e', and RVMPI were significantly higher. At T 4, the LVE/e' and the RVE/e' were significantly higher in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group than those in the normal cardiac function group (LVE/e': 16.52±1.26 vs. 9.87±1.25, RVE/e': 18.71±1.74 vs. 10.97±1.70, both P < 0.05). Mitral e' and tricuspid e' were significantly lower in the normal cardiac function group [mitral e' (m/s): 0.07±0.01 vs. 0.11±0.02, tricuspid e' (m/s): 0.06±0.01 vs. 0.10±0.02, both P < 0.05]. Conclusions:In early LV diastolic dysfunction patients, compared with patients with normal cardiac function, 5 cmH 2O PEEP can further exacerbate left and right myocardial systolic and diastolic function in patients during pneumoperitoneum; when the pneumoperitoneum was ended, 5 cmH 2O PEEP only worsen left and right myocardial diastolic function in patients, and did not affect left and right myocardial systolic function.

Presión positiva al final de la espiración, presión intracraneal y presión de perfusión cerebral en el paciente pediátrico crítico con traumatismo craneoencefálico grave / Positive end expiration pressure, intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure in the severe traumatic brain injury in child / Pressão positiva ao final da expiração, pressão intracraniana e pressão de perfusão cerebral em pacientes pediátricos criticamente enfermos com traumatismo cranioencefálico grave

Resumen: Introducción: el uso de presión positiva al final de la espiración mejora la oxigenación y recluta alvéolos, aunque también provoca alteraciones hemodinámicas e incrementa la presión intracraneal. Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio preexperimental de un solo grupo en pacientes pediátricos aquejados de traumatismo craneoencefálico grave, con hipoxemia asociada, tratados con diferentes niveles de presión positiva al final de la espiración, a los que se les monitorizó la presión intracraneal y la presión de perfusión cerebral para evaluar el efecto de esta maniobra ventilatoria en las variables intracraneales. Resultados: predominaron las edades entre cinco y 17 años, 14 (73.68%) y la escala de coma de Glasgow al ingreso de ocho a nueve puntos (47.36%). La presión intracraneal aumenta cuando la presión positiva al final de la espiración supera los 12 cmH2O. La escala de coma de Glasgow al ingreso de ocho puntos se asoció con secuelas ligeras o ausencia de secuelas (47.36%), todos los niños con tres puntos fallecieron. Conclusiones: el empleo de presión positiva al final de la espiración en el traumatismo craneoencefálico grave requiere de monitorización continua de la presión intracraneal. Corregir la hipertensión intracraneal y la inestabilidad hemodinámica son condiciones necesarias previas al tratamiento.

Abstract: Introduction: the use of positive end expiratory pressure improves oxygenation and recruits pulmonary alveoli, however at the same time it leads to hemodynamic changes and increase intracranial pressure. Material and methods: a prospective descriptive study was done with pediatric patients afflicted with severe traumatic brain injury associated with hypoxemia and treated with different levels of positive end expiratory pressure, to whom the intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure were monitored so as to evaluate the effect of this ventilation maneuver over the intracranial variables. Results: patients with age between 5-17 years old as well as male sex, 14 (73.68%) were predominant. 9 (47.36%) showed Glasgow coma scale of 8 points on admission. Intracranial pressure starts to rise when the positive end expiratory pressure exceeds 12 cmH2O. Glasgow coma scale with 8 points was associated with mild disability or no disability (47.36%). All the patients that scored 3 points died. Conclusions: the use of positive end expiratory pressure to correct hypoxemia was an applicable therapeutic alternative as long as continuous intracranial pressure monitoring was available in a systematic and personalized way. The correction of intracranial hypertension and hemodynamic instability were a necessary condition before using the ventilatory maneuver in these patients.

Resumo: Introdução: o uso de pressão positiva no final da expiração melhora a oxigenação e recruta alvéolos, embora também cause alterações hemodinâmicas e aumente a pressão intracraniana. Material e métodos: realizou-se um estudo pré-experimental de um único grupo em pacientes pediátricos vítimas de traumatismo cranioencefálico grave, com hipoxemia associada, tratados com diferentes níveis de pressão positiva ao final da expiração, nos quais foram monitoradas a pressão intracraniana e a pressão de perfusão cerebral, para avaliar o efeito desta manobra ventilatória em variáveis intracranianas. Resultados: predominou a faixa etária entre 5-17 anos, 14 (73.68%) e a escala de coma de Glasgow na admissão de 8 pontos, 9 (47.36%). A pressão intracraniana aumenta quando a pressão positiva no final da expiração excede 12 cmH2O. A escala de coma de Glasgow na admissão de 8 pontos foi associada a sequelas leves ou sem sequelas (47.36%), todas as crianças com 3 pontos morreram. Conclusões: a utilização de pressão positiva no final da expiração no TCE grave requer monitorização contínua da pressão intracraniana. A correção da hipertensão intracraniana e da instabilidade hemodinâmica são condições necessárias prévias ao tratamento.

A meta-analysis of the effect of neuromuscular blocking agents on oxygenation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome / 中华内科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) on oxygenation and respiratory conditions in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS).Methods:English databases such as MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science were searched online, as well as Chinese databases such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and Wanfang Database. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of NMBA therapy for ARDS with publication date up to May 2020 were retrieved. Literature was screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the main analysis indicators were oxygenation index.Results:A total of 5 RCTs were included, and 1 462 ARDS patients were enrolled. Compared with the control group, the ratio of partial arterial oxygen pressure to fraction of inspired (PaO 2)/(FiO 2) significantly improved in the intervention group after 72 hours MD=14.39, (95 %CI 6.40-22.38, P=0.000 4) and 96 hours of NMBA, but there was no difference between PaO 2/FiO 2 at 24 and 48 hours ( P>0.05).Positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) significantly decreased at 72 hours ( MD=-0.45, 95 %CI -0.87--0.03, P=0.04) and 96 hours ( MD=-0.82, 95 %CI -1.39--0.26, P=0.004) treatment with NMBA, while there was no significant difference in PEEP between 24 and 48 hours after treatment ( P>0.05). At 96 h, plateau pressure (Pplat) in the intervention group was significantly lower ( MD=-1.69, 95 %CI -2.64--0.75, P=0.000 4), and there was no significant difference in Pplat between 24, 48 and 72 h after treatment ( P>0.05). Conclusion:The early use of NMBA within 48 hours has a delayed improvement effect on oxygenation and ventilator conditions in ARDS patients.

The effects of positive end-expiratory pressure on central venous pressure in patients with different chest wall elastic resistance / 中华内科杂志

Objective:To investigate the role of chest wall elastic resistance in determining the effects of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on central venous pressure (CVP) in patients with mechanical ventilation (MV).Methods:In this prospective study, according to the median of ratio of chest wall elastic resistance to respiratory system elastic resistance (Ers), patients were divided into high chest wall elastic resistance group (Ecw/Ers≥0.24) and low chest wall elastic resistance group [elastance of chest wall (Ecw)/Ers<0.24]. PEEP was set at 5, 10, 15 cmH 2O (1 cmH 2O=0.098 kPa) respectively. Clinical data including CVP, heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP) and respiratory mechanics were recorded. Results:Seventy patients receiving MV were included from November 2017 to December 2018. Clinical characteristics including age, BP, HR, baseline PEEP, the ratio of arterial oxygen partial pressure to fractional inspired oxygen (P/F) and comorbidities were comparable in two groups. However, patients with high Ecw/Ers ratio presented higher body mass index (BMI) than those with low Ecw/Ers ratio[ (25.4±3.2) kg/m 2 vs. (23.4±3.2) kg/m 2, P=0.011]. As PEEP increased from 5 cmH 2O to 10 cmH 2O, CVP in high Ecw/Ers group increased significantly compared with that in low Ecw/Ers group [1.75(1.00, 2.13) mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133kPa) vs. 1.50(0.50, 2.00)mmHg, P=0.038], which was the same as PEEP increased from 10 cmH 2O to 15 cmH 2O [2.00(1.50, 3.00)mmHg vs. 1.50(1.00, 2.00)mmHg, P=0.041] or PEEP increased from 5 cmH 2O to 15 cmH 2O [ 3.75(3.00,4.63)mmHg vs. 3.00(1.63, 4.00)mmHg, P=0.012]. When PEEP increased from 5 cmH 2O to 10 cmH 2O, 10 cmH 2O to 15 cmH 2O and 10 cmH 2O to 15 cmH 2O, there were significant correlations between Ecw/Ers and CVP elevation ( r=0.29, P=0.016; r=0.31, P=0.011; r=0.31, P=0.01 respectively). Conclusions:In patients receiving mechanical ventilation, elevation of PEEP leads to a synchronous change of CVP, which is corelated with patients′ chest wall elastic resistances.

Effect of driving pressure-guided lung protective ventilation strategy on early postoperative pulmonary function in adults patients undergoing heart valve surgery: A randomized controlled study / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective    To evaluate the effect of driving pressure-guided lung protective ventilation strategy on lung function in adult patients under elective cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods    In this randomized controlled trial, 106 patients scheduled for elective valve surgery via median sternal incision under cardiopulmonary bypass from July to October 2020 at West China Hospital of Sichuan University were included in final analysis. Patients were divided into two groups randomly. Both groups received volume-controlled ventilation. A protective ventilation group (a control group, n=53) underwent traditional lung protective ventilation strategy with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 5 cm H2O and received conventional protective ventilation with tidal volume of 7 mL/kg of predicted body weight and PEEP of 5 cm H2O, and recruitment maneuver. An individualized PEEP group (a driving pressure group, n=53) received the same tidal volume and recruitment, but with individualized PEEP which produced the lowest driving pressure. The primary outcome was oxygen index (OI) after ICU admission in 30 minutes, and the secondary outcomes were the incidence of OI below 300 mm Hg, the severity of OI descending scale (the Berlin definition), the incidence of pulmonary complications at 7 days after surgery and surgeons’ satisfaction on ventilation. Results    There was a statistical difference in OI after ICU admission in 30 minutes between the two groups (273.5±75.5 mm Hg vs. 358.0±65.3 mm Hg, P=0.00). The driving pressure group had lower incidence of postoperative OI<300 mm Hg (16.9% vs. 49.0%, OR=0.21, 95%CI 0.08-0.52, P=0.00) and less severity of OI classification than the control group (P=0.00). The incidence of pulmonary complications at 7 days after surgery was comparable between the driving pressure group and the control group (28.3% vs. 33.9%, OR=0.76, 95%CI 0.33-1.75, P=0.48). The atelectasis rate was lower in the driving pressure group (1.0% vs. 15.0%, OR=0.10, 95%CI 0.01-0.89, P=0.01). Conclusion    Application of driving pressure-guided ventilation is associated with a higher OI and less lung injury after ICU admission compared with the conventional protective ventilation in patients having valve surgery.

O comportamento da pressão arterial após elevação da pressão parcial positiva final pode auxiliar na determinação do status de fluido-responsividade em pacientes com choque séptico? / Can the behavior of blood pressure after elevation of the positive end-expiratory pressure help to determine the fluid responsiveness status in patients with septic shock?

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar se a diminuição da pressão arterial provocada pela elevação da pressão parcial positiva final corresponde à variação da pressão de pulso como indicador de fluido-responsividade. Métodos: Estudo de caráter exploratório que incluiu prospectivamente 24 pacientes com choque séptico ventilados mecanicamente e submetidos a três etapas de elevação da pressão parcial positiva final: de 5 para 10cmH2O (nível da pressão parcial positiva final 1), de 10 para 15cmH2O (nível da pressão parcial positiva final 2) e de 15 para 20cmH2O (nível da pressão parcial positiva final 3). Alterações da pressão arterial sistólica, da pressão arterial média e da variação da pressão de pulso foram avaliadas durante as três manobras. Os pacientes foram classificados como responsivos (variação da pressão de pulso ≥ 12%) e não responsivos a volume (variação da pressão de pulso < 12%). Resultados: O melhor desempenho para identificar pacientes com variação da pressão de pulso ≥ 12% foi observado no nível da pressão parcial positiva final 2: variação de pressão arterial sistólica de -9% (área sob a curva de 0,73; IC95%: 0,49 - 0,79; p = 0,04), com sensibilidade de 63% e especificidade de 80%. A concordância foi baixa entre a variável de melhor desempenho (variação de pressão arterial sistólica) e a variação da pressão de pulso ≥ 12% (kappa = 0,42; IC95%: 0,19 - 0,56). A pressão arterial sistólica foi < 90mmHg no nível da pressão parcial positiva final 2 em 29,2% dos casos e em 41,6,3% no nível da pressão parcial positiva final 3. Conclusão: Variações da pressão arterial em resposta à elevação da pressão parcial positiva final não refletem de modo confiável o comportamento da variação da pressão de pulso para identificar o status da fluido-responsividade.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate whether the decrease in blood pressure caused by the increase in the positive end-expiratory pressure corresponds to the pulse pressure variation as an indicator of fluid responsiveness. Methods: This exploratory study prospectively included 24 patients with septic shock who were mechanically ventilated and subjected to three stages of elevation of the positive end-expiratory pressure: from 5 to 10cmH2O (positive end-expiratory pressure level 1), from 10 to 15cmH2O (positive end-expiratory pressure level 2), and from 15 to 20cmH2O (positive end-expiratory pressure level 3). Changes in systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and pulse pressure variation were evaluated during the three maneuvers. The patients were classified as responsive (pulse pressure variation ≥ 12%) or unresponsive to volume replacement (pulse pressure variation < 12%). Results: The best performance at identifying patients with pulse pressure variation ≥ 12% was observed at the positive end-expiratory pressure level 2: -9% systolic blood pressure variation (area under the curve 0.73; 95%CI: 0.49 - 0.79; p = 0.04), with a sensitivity of 63% and specificity of 80%. Concordance was low between the variable with the best performance (variation in systolic blood pressure) and pulse pressure variation ≥ 12% (kappa = 0.42; 95%CI: 0.19 - 0.56). The systolic blood pressure was < 90mmHg at positive end-expiratory pressure level 2 in 29.2% of cases and at positive end-expiratory pressure level 3 in 41.63% of cases. Conclusion: Variations in blood pressure in response to the increase in positive end-expiratory pressure do not reliably reflect the behavior of the pulse pressure as a measure to identify the fluid responsiveness status.

Inverse ratio ventilation combined with PEEP in infants undergoing thoracoscopic surgery with one lung ventilation for lung cystadenomas: a randomized control trial of 63 cases / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effect of inverse ratio ventilation (IRV) combined with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) in infants undergoing thoracoscopic surgery with single lung ventilation (OLV) for lung cystadenomas.@*METHODS@#A total of 66 infants undergoing thoracoscopic surgery with OLV for lung cystadenomas in our hospital from February, 2018 to February, 2019 were randomized into conventional ventilation groups (group N, =33) and inverse ventilation group (group R, =33). Hemodynamics and respiratory parameters of the infants were recorded and arterial blood gas analysis was performed at 15 min after two lung ventilation (TLV) (T), OLV30 min (T), OLV60 min (T), and 15 min after recovery of TLV (T). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected before and after surgery to detect the expression level of advanced glycation end product receptor (RAGE).@*RESULTS@#Sixty-three infants were finally included in this study. At T and T, Cdyn, PaO and OI in group R were significantly higher ( < 0.05) and Ppeak, PaCO and PA-aO were significantly lower than those in group N ( < 0.05). There was no significant difference in HR or MAP between the two groups at T and T ( > 0.05). The level of RAGE significantly increased after the surgery in both groups ( < 0.05), and was significantly lower in R group than in N group ( < 0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#In infants undergoing thoracoscopic surgery with OLV for pulmonary cystadenoma, appropriate IRV combined with PEEP does not affect hemodynamic stability and can increases pulmonary compliance, reduce the peak pressure, and improve oxygenation to provide pulmonary protection.

Monitorizacion del gasto cardiaco con ecocardiografia transtoracica y cateter de Swan Ganz. Estudio comparativo en pacientes en ventilacion mecanica con presión positiva espiratoria final elevada / Cardiac output measured by transthoracic echocardiography and Swan-Ganz catheter. A comparative study in mechanically ventilated patients with high positive end-expiratory pressure

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comparar las medidas de gasto cardiaco por ecocardiografía transtorácica y por catéter arterial pulmonar en pacientes en ventilación mecánica con presión positiva al final de la espiración elevada. Evaluar el efecto de la insuficiencia tricúspide. Métodos: Se estudiaron 16 pacientes en ventilación mecánica. El gasto cardiaco se midió con el catéter arterial pulmonar y por ecocardiografía transtorácica. Las medidas se realizaron en diferentes niveles de presión positiva al final de la espiración (10cmH2O, 15cmH2O, y 20cmH2O). Se evalúo el efecto de la insuficiencia tricúspide sobre la medida de gasto cardiaco. Se estudió el coeficiente de correlación intraclase; el error medio y los límites de concordancia se estudiaron con el diagrama de Bland-Altman. Se calculó el porcentaje de error. Resultados: Se obtuvieron 44 pares de medidas de gasto cardiaco. Se obtuvo un coeficiente de correlación intraclase de 0,908, p < 0,001; el error medio fue 0,44L/min para valores de gasto cardíaco entre 5 a 13L/min. Los límites de concordancia se encontraron entre 3,25L/min y -2,37L/min. Con insuficiencia tricúspide el coeficiente de correlación intraclase fue 0,791, sin insuficiencia tricúspide el coeficiente de correlación intraclase fue 0,935. La presencia de insuficiencia tricúspide aumentó el porcentaje de error de 32 % a 52%. Conclusiones: En pacientes con presión positiva al final de la espiración elevada la medida de gasto cardiaco por ecocardiografía transtorácica es comparable con catéter arterial pulmonar. La presencia de insuficiencia tricúspide influye en el coeficiente de correlación intraclase. En pacientes con presión positiva al final de la espiración elevada, el uso de ecocardiografía transtorácica para medir gasto cardiaco es comparable con las medidas invasivas.

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare cardiac output measurements by transthoracic echocardiography and a pulmonary artery catheter in mechanically ventilated patients with high positive end-expiratory pressure. To evaluate the effect of tricuspid regurgitation. Methods: Sixteen mechanically ventilated patients were studied. Cardiac output was measured by pulmonary artery catheterization and transthoracic echocardiography. Measurements were performed at different levels of positive end-expiratory pressure (10cmH2O, 15cmH2O, and 20cmH2O). The effect of tricuspid regurgitation on cardiac output measurement was evaluated. The intraclass correlation coefficient was studied; the mean error and limits of agreement were studied with the Bland-Altman plot. The error rate was calculated. Results: Forty-four pairs of cardiac output measurements were obtained. An intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.908 was found (p < 0.001). The mean error was 0.44L/min for cardiac output values between 5 and 13L/min. The limits of agreement were 3.25L/min and -2.37L/min. With tricuspid insufficiency, the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.791, and without tricuspid insufficiency, 0.935. Tricuspid insufficiency increased the error rate from 32% to 52%. Conclusions: In patients with high positive end-expiratory pressure, cardiac output measurement by transthoracic echocardiography is comparable to that with a pulmonary artery catheter. Tricuspid regurgitation influences the intraclass correlation coefficient. In patients with high positive end-expiratory pressure, the use of transthoracic echocardiography to measure cardiac output is comparable to invasive measures.

Impacto da pressão positiva expiratória em pacientes no pós-operatório de cirurgias abdominais: um ensaio clínico randomizado / Impact of positive expiratory pressure in patients in the postoperative surgery of abdominal surgeries: a randomized clinical test

Introdução: Os pacientes submetidos a cirurgias abdominais possuem riscos de complicações pulmonares no período pós-operatório, tais como: diminuição da atividade respiratória, alteração da relação ventilação/perfusão e intensificação no trabalho dos músculos respiratórios, aumentando a morbidade e a mortalidade hospitalar. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto da pressão positiva expiratória na função pulmonar em pacientes no pós-operatório de cirurgias abdominal eletiva. Métodos: Caracteriza-se como um estudo exploratório do tipo ensaio clínico randomizado, composto por 40 pacientes randomizados em dois grupos, grupo intervenção foi submetido a um protocolo de pressão positiva expiratória nas vias respiratórias com pressão positiva expiratória final de 10 cmH2O e deambulação por 150 metros e o grupo controle realizou deambulação por 150 metros e orientações sobre a importância da inspiração profunda a cada duas horas, sendo realizada avaliação no pós-operatório imediato e no momento da alta hospitalar. Resultados: Pode-se perceber um padrão homogêneo entre os grupos estudados, observou-se significância estatística na análise intragrupos nas variáveis saturação periférica de oxigênio (p < 0,0001) e no pico de fluxo expiratório (p = 0,009) e na capacidade vital forçada (p < 0,0001). Na análise entre os grupos observou-se diferença estatística na saturação periférica de oxigênio (p = 0,010) e no pico de fluxo expiratório (p = 0,012). Conclusão: Pode-se concluir, no presente estudo, que a utilização da pressão positiva expiratória no pós-operatório de cirurgias abdominais impactou positivamente na saturação periférica de oxigênio e no pico de fluxo expiratório, demonstrando um benefício significativo no processo ventilatório e difusional no grupo estudado. (AU)

Introduction: Patients undergoing abdominal surgery have a risk of pulmonary complications in the postoperative period, such as: decreased respiratory activity, altered ventilation / perfusion ratio, and increased respiratory muscle work, increasing hospital morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate the impact of positive expiratory pressure on lung function in postoperative patients of elective abdominal surgeries. Methods: Characterized as an exploratory study of the type randomized clinical trial, composed of 40 patients randomized into two groups, the intervention group was submitted to a protocol of positive expiratory pressure in the respiratory tract with final expiratory positive pressure of 10 cmH2O and ambulation for 150 meters and the control group underwent walking for 150 meters and guidelines on the importance of deep inspiration every two hours, being evaluated in the immediate postoperative period and at the time of hospital discharge. Results: A homogeneous pattern could be observed between the groups studied. Statistical significance was observed in the intra-group analysis in the variables peripheral oxygen saturation (p <0.0001) and peak expiratory flow (p = 0.009) vital forcing (p <0.0001). In the analysis between groups, a statistical difference was observed in peripheral oxygen saturation (p = 0.010) and peak expiratory flow (p = 0.012). Conclusion: We concluded that the use of positive expiratory pressure in the postoperative period of abdominal surgeries had a positive impact on peripheral oxygen saturation and peak expiratory flow, demonstrating a significant benefit in the ventilatory and diffusional process in the studied group. (AU)

Bacteriology and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of ventilator-associated pneumonia in a tertiary care hospital

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is one of the most important hospital-acquired infections. VAP is pneumonia that develops 48 h or more after patients have been intubated and received mechanical ventilation by means of an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy. VAP is usually suspected when an individual develops a new or progressive infiltrates on chest radiograph, leukocytosis, and purulent tracheobronchial secretions. This is diagnosed based on positive end-expiratory pressure, fraction of inspired oxygen, bacteriological evidence, and signs of pulmonary infection. VAP is considered as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in intensive care units (ICUs). Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess the common pathogenic bacteria causing VAP and to determine its antibiotic susceptibility pattern. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 100 patients with clinical diagnosis of VAP. Bacterial culture was done for patient’s endotracheal aspirates. Antibiotic sensitivity test was done for culture-positive cases by Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Results: A total of 72 patients (72%) showed positive culture. Gram-negative bacilli accounted for 91% of the isolated organisms with Acinetobacter species accounting for 40% followed by Pseudomonas species (26%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (14%). Majority of the organisms were sensitive to imipenem with Acinetobacter being sensitive in 51% cases, Pseudomonas in 56%, and Klebsiella in 42% cases. Conclusion: Surveillance of VAP in ICUs is required to find out common causative organism and its antibiotic susceptibility to different antibiotics. This type of surveillance study is helpful for formulating antibiotic policy that would be more rational to reduce mortality and morbidity associated with VAP.

Vibration response imaging for assessment of lung recruitment in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome / 医学研究生学报

Objective　Vibration response imaging (VRI) has been applied to the bedside monitoring of critically ill patients. The purpose of this study was to explore the value of VRI in assessing lung recruitment in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).　Methods　We prospectively studied the clinical data on 20 cases of ARDS treated in our Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine from January 2015 to June 2017. The positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of the patients was increased from 5 and 15 cm H2O, the mean grey value of the max energy frame of VRI was determined, the quantitative lung data (QLD) were obtained, and the correlation of the VRI image with the recruited lung volume and oxygenation index was analyzed.　Results The patients with PEEP at 15 cm H2O, in comparison with those with PEEP at 5 cm H2O, showed a significantly decreased mean gray value of the max energy frame of VRI (169.1 ± 11.3 vs 175.1 ± 15.9, P = 0.04), increased gray area ([56.3 ± 4.4]% vs [52.7 ± 7.5]%, P < 0.05), declined QLD in the upper left and left middle regions (P < 0.05) and elevated in the lower left and lower right regions (P < 0.05). With the PEEP at 15 cm H2O, the mean gray value of VRI was increased by -5.6 ± 12.8, negatively correlated with the recruited lung volume (r = -0.785, P < 0.01), and the gray area increased (3.8 ± 4.8)%, positively correlated with the recruited lung volume (r =0.793, P < 0.01). With PEEP at 5 and 15 cm H2O, the oxygenation indexes were (116.3 ± 25.6) mmHg and (116.3 ± 25.6) mmHg, respectively, the improvement rate of which correlated negatively with the increased mean gray value of VRI (r = -0.740, P < 0.01) but positively with the gray area (r = 0.581, P < 0.01).　Conclusion　Lung recruitment can be adequately estimated with bedside VRI in patients with ARDS.

Effect of neurally adjusted ventilatory assist on trigger of mechanical ventilation in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure / 中华内科杂志

Objective To compare the trigger delay and work of trigger between neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) and pressure support ventilation (PSV) in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients with intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) during mechanical ventilation. Methods AECOPD patients with intrinsic PEEP (PEEPi) greater than or equal to 3 cmH2O (1 cmH2O=0.098 kPa) were enrolled during invasive mechanical ventilation. Subjects were ventilated with low, medium and high pressure under either NAVA or PSV mode. Servo Tracker software continuously recorded the waveform of ventilator and respiratory mechanics indexes (including respiratory frequency, inspiratory tidal volume (Vti), minute ventilation volume (VE), peak airway pressure (PIP), inspiratory time), and calculated trigger and expiratory conversion delay time, work of trigger and total work of breath. Results A total of 14 AECOPD patients were enrolled with the average PEEPi (4.3±1.3) cmH2O. PSV inspiratory trigger delay time was positively correlated with PEEPi (r=0.913, P<0.05). Compared with PSV, NAVA significantly decreased trigger delay time in low, medium and high pressure level groups [(48±17) ms vs. (167±86) ms, (63±65) ms vs. (247±240) ms, (63±49) ms vs. (342±192) ms,respectively all P<0.05]. Similar results were shown as to work of trigger [(0.92±0.36) μV?s vs. (1.22±0.70) μV?s, (1.08±0.51) μV?s vs. (1.62 ± 1.25) μV?s, (1.20 ± 0.96) μV?s vs. (2.29 ± 1.02) μV?s, all P<0.05]. Trigger delay time increased according to the increase of pressure level in PSV mode.Conclusion The presence of PEEPi in AECOPD patients leads to obvious trigger delay under PSV mode, which is positively correlated with PEEPi level. NAVA significantly reduces trigger delay time and work of trigger compared with PSV mode.

The advantages and disadvantages of applying high positive end￣expiratory pressure in acute respiratory distress syndrome / 中国小儿急救医学

The main pathophysiological features of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are alveolitis edema,collapse and V/Q ratio imbalance. Consensus Recommendations from the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference recommends that the lung protective ventilation strategy be the first choice for mechanical ventilation of PARDS with small tidal volume and high positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) used to improve oxygenation. High PEEP is an important technical tool for the " Open Lung Con-cept". It is beneficial to improve oxygenation through the operation of lung recruitment (RM) and the main-tenance of alveolar open. High PEEP reduced the formation of pulmonary edema in animal experimental mod-els. Large-scale adult randomized controlled trials have shown that high PEEP may reduce mortality in patients with severe hypoxemia,but it is currently subject to some challenges. Simultaneously,high PEEP and ventilator-induced lung injury(VILI) caused by excessive lung expansion are closely related,and increase the incidence of barotrauma and pneumothorax. High PEEP may reduce the volume of blood returning to the heart,reduce cardiac output,and also reduce cerebral perfusion pressure and aggravate brain edema. It is still a highly controversial issue to use high PEEP to optimize lung recruitment in patients with ARDS and to choose the best PEEP to maintain the alveolar open. It has been suggested that the purpose of lung recruitment is no longer to restore normal lung ventilation,but to provide reasonable arterial oxygen saturation and reduce oxy-gen toxicity priority. PEEP above 10 cmH2 O is suggested to be used to optimize lung recruitment if lung col-lapse is diffuse. When the lung collapse is locally distributed,it is not suitable to use excessive PEEP for RM and other methods can be used to improve V/Q ratio.

Research progress in perioperative ventilator-induced lung injury / 中南大学学报(医学版)

Lung-protective ventilation (such as low tidal volume and application of positive end-expiratory pressure) is beneficial for patients with acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and has become the standard treatment in intensive care unit (ICU).However,some experts now question whether the protective ventilation strategy for ARDS patients in the ICU is equally beneficial for patients after surgery,especially for most patients without any pre-existing lung lesions.This review will discuss preoperative,intraoperative,and postoperative lung protection strategies to reduce the risk of complications associated with anesthesia.

Systemic air embolism in a fungal pneumonia patient with lung cavities formation and review of literature / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

Systemic air embolism is a rare but potentially fatal complication related to many factors. The purpose of this article is to alert clinicians once patients occurs an abnormal neurological and cardiovascular status, following minor traumatic treatment, air embolism should be considered. A 20-year-old man who presented with fungal pneumonia with lung cavities formation was admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) and received positive airway pressure ventilation. Four days later, the fungal pneumonia was improved, but the patient's blood pressure and arterial oxygen saturation deteriorated, so computed tomography (CT) scans were preformed to reevaluate him. The scans detected air embolism in the left atrium and ventricle, ascending aorta, aortic arch and its branches (right brachiocephalic, bilateral common carotid and right subclavian arteries), descending aorta and right coronary artery. A CT scan of the abdomen revealed air in the spleen, cauda pancreatic, superior mesenteric artery and right external iliac artery. The patient died two days later from multiple organ dysfunction. We suggest that vascular air embolism should be considered under mechanical ventilation when patients' neurologic and cardiovascular status deteriorates, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be conducted immediately.

Application of electrical impedance tomography for postoperative lung recruitment in patients undergoing off pump coronary artery bypass grafting surgery / 上海交通大学学报（医学版）

Objective • To find out the optimal positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) by electrical impedance tomography (EIT) for better lung recruitment and ventilation distribution in patients undergoing off pump coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (OPCAB). Methods • 105 patients underwent OPCAB from Jan. 2017 to Dec. 2017 were analysed. Patients were randomly divided into two groups, i.e. experiment group (54 cases) and control group (51 cases). Four regions of interest (ROI) were recorded by EIT. PEEP were 3 cmH2O in control group while PEEP were increased stepwise by 2 cmH2O from 0 cmH2O to 14 cmH2O in experiment group. The optimal PEEP for lung recruitment was applied in experiment group. Postoperative oxygenation index (PaO2/FiO2) and pulmonary complication were compared between two groups. Results • The overall mortality was 2 (1.90%). The incidence of postoperative pulmonary complication, pulmonary infection, atelectasis, pleural effusion were 18.10%, 2.86%, 18.10%, 18.10%, respectively. The optimal PEEP zone was 6-9 cmH2O. PaO2/FiO2 was significantly increased with the optimal PEEP in experiment group (P=0.00). There were significant differences in postoperative pulmonary complication between two groups (P=0.02). Conclusion • EIT can directly monitor ventilation distribution and titrate suitable PEEP for better lung recruitment in patients undergoing OPCAB. It can significantly reduce postoperative pulmonary complication, improve oxygenation, and decrease ICU stay and ventilation duration.

Therapeutic effect of Lianggesan for treatment of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome / 中国中西医结合急救杂志

Objective To observe the effect of prescription of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Lianggesan on clinical efficacy for treatment of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Methods Fifty-two patients consistent with the Berlin diagnostic criteria of ARDS admitted to the departments of intensive care unit (ICU) of Tianjin Hospital and of the First Tianjin Center Hospital from May 1, 2015 to April 30, 2016 were enrolled, and they were divided into a Chinese medicine group (24 cases) and a control group (28 cases) by lottery. The anti-infection, reduction of phlegm, mechanical ventilation and symptomatic support treatment were given to the two groups, additionally Chinese medicine group received TCM Lianggesan (particles) including ingredients: fructus forsythiae 30 g, radix scutellariae 10 g, fructus gardeniae 10 g, henon bamboo leaf 10 g, rhubarb 10 g, herba menthae 6 g, natrii sulfas 6 g, radix glycyrrhizae 15 g, adding water to punch the particles in 50 mL liquid, taken by nasal feeding or orally drinking, in the morning and in the evening, twice a day. Before and after treatment, the differences in levels of oxygenation index, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) were compared between the two groups. Results After treatment, the oxygenation indexes of the two groups were significantly higher than those before treatment, the levels of TNF-α and PEEP of the two groups were significantly lower than those before treatment, and the degrees of changing in the Chinese medicine group were more significant than those of the control group [oxygenation index (mmHg, 1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa): 267.45±38.67 vs. 235.26±30.62, TNF-α (mg/L):24.37±5.46 vs. 28.31±5.41, PEEP (cmH2O, 1 cmH2O = 0.098 kPa): 4.58±1.61 vs. 5.93±1.61, all P < 0.05]. Conclusion TCM Lianggesan can effectively eliminate the inflammatory mediators of patients with ARDS, improve the respiratory function and promote the recovery of the disease.