Management of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a complex clinical syndrome of respiratory failure that presents a challenge to every critical care team. Since the first clear description by Ashbaugh et al more than 30 years ago, much has been learned about the pathophysiologic process that occurs within the lungs after they suffer either a direct or indirect injury. Unfortunately, little success has been achieved in improving outcomes; however, hope is on the horizon. Current research evaluating optimal ventilator management, ECMO, the use of inhaled nitric oxide, and other experimental management strategies will hopefully combine to produce improved outcomes.