Clinical Research Directory

The intervention was a standardized stepwise weaning protocol for tracheostomized patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation. Clinical stability and readiness for weaning were assessed before protocol initiation. Ventilator support was gradually reduced according to patient tolerance. When patients met predefined readiness criteria, spontaneous breathing trials were performed under pressure support ventilation. Patients who tolerated spontaneous breathing trials transitioned to progressively longer periods of high-flow oxygen therapy delivered through the tracheostomy tube. Noninvasive ventilation was used when appropriate to support transition from invasive ventilation and facilitate liberation from ventilatory support. Patients were reconnected to the ventilator if signs of respiratory distress or clinical instability occurred. Airway clearance, rehabilitation, nutritional support, and multidisciplinary reassessment were integrated throughout the protocol.