What does the term “ventilator-induced lung injury” mean?

The term "ventilator-induced lung injury" refers specifically to damage to the lung tissue that arises from inappropriate mechanical ventilation settings, particularly high tidal volumes or excessive pressures. When tidal volumes exceed physiological limits or when airway pressures become excessively high, it can lead to over-distension of the alveoli, resulting in barotrauma or volutrauma. This trauma can compromise the structure and function of the lung tissue, leading to inflammation, edema, and sometimes long-term complications.

Understanding this concept is crucial in clinical practice, as it underscores the importance of using protective lung strategies during mechanical ventilation to minimize the risk of injury. Low tidal volume ventilation, for example, has been shown to reduce the incidence of ventilator-induced lung injury, particularly in patients with conditions like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Thus, recognizing the dangers associated with high tidal volumes or pressures is key to preventing adverse outcomes in ventilated patients.