Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 19, 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
Ventilator Weaning and Spontaneous Breathing Trials; an Educational Review
Hossam Zein1, Alireza Baratloo2, Ahmed Negida1
1Faculty of medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.
Abstract:
The term "weaning" is used to describe the gradual process of decreasing ventilator support. It is estimated that 40% of the duration of mechanical ventilation is dedicated to the process of weaning. Spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) assesses the patient's ability to breathe while receiving minimal or no ventilator support. The collective task force in 2001 stated that the process of SBT and weaning should start by assessing whether the underlying cause of respiratory failure has been resolved or not. Weaning predictors are parameters that are intended to help clinicians predict whether weaning attempts will be successful or not. Although the international consensus conference in 2005 did not recommend their routine use for clinical decision making, researchers did not stop working in this area. In the present article, we review some of the recent studies about weaning predictors, criteria, procedure, as well as assessment for extubation a mechanically ventilated patient.
Related Concept Videos
Ventilatory Modes
There are three ventilatory modes: full support, partial support, and spontaneous. These are described below.
Full Support Modes
Full support modes include controlled mechanical ventilation, continuous mandatory...
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation...
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
Tracheostomy Decannulation
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:

