Clinical Research Directory

Flow-Controlled vs. Pressure-Controlled Ventilation in CABG: Effects on Lung Aeration and Diaphragm Function

Pulmonary atelectasis and loss of lung aeration are common complications following cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and are associated with impaired oxygenation and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Diaphragm dysfunction occurring in the perioperative period may further delay extubation and prolong intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Flow-Controlled Ventilation (FCV) is a novel ventilation modality that provides continuous, flow-based delivery of tidal breaths with a triangular flow profile, potentially offering superior dynamic compliance optimisation compared to conventional Pressure-Controlled Ventilation (PCV).

Ventilation Mode and Atelectasis After Prone-Position Surgery: A Lung Ultrasound Study

This prospective single-centre observational study compared two intraoperative mechanical ventilation modes, volume-controlled ventilation (VCV) and VCV with AutoFlow/AF, in adults undergoing elective surgery in the prone position. The ventilation mode was selected by the attending anaesthesiologist as part of routine clinical care; the investigators did not assign it. Perioperative atelectasis was assessed using a modified bilateral 12-zone lung ultrasound score obtained before induction of anaesthesia and after extubation, and oxygenation was assessed using the alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient calculated from an intraoperative arterial blood gas sample. The study also examined whether the effect of ventilation mode on atelectasis differed according to obesity.