What is the primary goal of lung protective ventilation strategies?

The primary goal of lung protective ventilation strategies is to reduce ventilator-induced lung injury. This approach focuses on minimizing the risk of injury to the lungs that can occur due to mechanical ventilation, particularly in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or other lung-related illnesses. By using lower tidal volumes and limiting plateau pressures, lung protective strategies prioritize the prevention of overdistension of alveoli and barotrauma, both of which can exacerbate lung injury.

This strategy emphasizes the importance of protecting lung function while still adequately supporting ventilation and oxygenation. Therefore, by implementing lung protective ventilation, clinicians aim to optimize patient outcomes by reducing inflammation and preserving lung architecture.