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Complications of mechanical ventilation in the pediatric population

Tania Principi1, Douglas D Fraser, Gavin C Morrison

  • 1Critical Care Unit, Children's Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.

Pediatric Pulmonology
|January 4, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mechanical ventilation (MV) complications occurred in 40% of pediatric patients, with atelectasis and post-extubation stridor being most common. Further research is needed to identify risk factors and reduction strategies for these adverse events.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric critical care medicine
  • Respiratory therapy
  • Clinical research methodology

Background:

  • Mechanical ventilation (MV) is essential for critically ill children but carries risks.
  • Evolving MV strategies aim to minimize adverse events.
  • Understanding pediatric MV complications is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence and types of complications associated with mechanical ventilation in children.
  • To identify specific adverse events linked to MV in a pediatric population.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective observational study design.
  • Enrolled 150 pediatric patients over 10 months (median age 0.8 years).
  • Monitored patients for complications during mechanical ventilation.

Main Results:

  • 40% of patients experienced MV complications (85 total events).
  • Most common complications included atelectasis (16.7%), post-extubation stridor (13.3%), and failed extubation (9.3%).
  • Atelectasis was more frequent in children aged 1 year or older; failed extubation was associated with longer ventilation duration.

Conclusions:

  • Mechanical ventilation in children is associated with significant complication rates.
  • Atelectasis and post-extubation stridor are the predominant complications.
  • Further investigation into risk factors and preventative strategies is warranted.
Keywords:
adverse effectsartificialatelectasisintubationmechanical ventilationpediatricpneumoniarespirationventilator-associated

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