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Mechanical ventilation in patients with acute severe asthma
J K Mansel1, S W Stogner, M F Petrini
1Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson.
The American Journal of Medicine
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Mechanical ventilation for severe asthma is uncommon but carries significant risks. This study found a 22% mortality rate, highlighting the perilous nature of ventilating critically ill asthma patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Acute severe asthma requiring mechanical ventilation is rare.
- Limited data exist on positive pressure ventilation in critically ill asthma patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the experience with mechanical ventilation for acute severe asthma.
- To review previous reports on mechanical ventilation in asthma.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of medical records (1980-1988).
- Reviewed clinical parameters and used Fisher's exact test for survival association.
Main Results:
- 27 patients (32 ventilation episodes) studied; 22% overall mortality.
- Mean ventilation duration: 114 hours (nonsurvivors) vs. 77 hours (survivors).
- 76 complications documented, including 6 barotrauma cases.
Conclusions:
- Mechanical ventilation for acute asthma has significant morbidity and mortality.
- A trend toward increased survival was observed, but it remains a perilous procedure.