Mandatory minute volume weaning in patients with pulmonary pathology

This study evaluates mandatory minute volume (MMV) weaning in patients with pulmonary pathology. When weaning criteria were fulfilled, 22 patients were randomised to MMV and 18 to a control intermittent mandatory ventilation (IMV) group. With IMV weaning the ventilator rate was decreased by two breaths per minute at 3-4 hourly intervals during daylight hours. In the MMV group a target of 75% of the ventilator minute volume was set. All weans were considered complete four hours after the cessation of mechanical support, and were deemed successful if no further ventilation was required. The success rate was 86% in the IMV and 89% in the MMV group. MMV weaning was rapid (4.75 + 1.5 hrs) and proved less demanding on the ICU staff by providing a safe trial of spontaneous respiration, while retaining the facility for partial ventilation.