Automatic tube compensation in the weaning process

Unnecessarily prolonging or prematurely discontinuing mechanical ventilation may result in significant morbidity and even mortality. In order to optimize the timing of ventilation discontinuation, evidence-based guidelines suggest that patients undergo a daily screen (for measures of oxygenation, cough and secretions, adequate mental status, and hemodynamic stability) to assess weaning readiness [1]. For patients meeting the criteria, a spontaneous breathing trial is then performed in order to assess their ability to breathe unaided. The way the trial is tolerated, determined by both objective (respiratory and hemodynamic parameters) and subjective (evidence of increased work of breathing and distress) criteria, determines whether extubation is performed.