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Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Inspiratory Muscle Training as an Adjunct to the Treatment of Weaning Failure in Critically Ill Patients: A Practical Guide
Published on: January 30, 2026
Clinical review: the ABC of weaning failure--a structured approach
Leo M Heunks1, Johannes G van der Hoeven
1Department of Intensive Care Medicine (632), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Postbox 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands. L.Heunks@ic.umcn.nl
Abstract:
About 20% to 30% of patients are difficult to wean from invasive mechanical ventilation. The pathophysiology of difficult weaning is complex. Accordingly, determining the reason for difficult weaning and subsequently developing a treatment strategy require a dedicated clinician with in-depth knowledge of the pathophysiology of weaning failure. This review presents a structural framework ('ABCDE') for the assessment and treatment of difficult-to-wean patients. Earlier recognition of the underlying causes may expedite weaning from mechanical ventilation.
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