Latest Advances in the Treatment of Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition characterized by severe inflammation and impaired gas exchange, leading to hypoxemic respiratory failure. It significantly impacts patients by increasing morbidity, mortality, and need for prolonged intensive care unit care. ARDS progresses through 3 phases-exudative, proliferative, and fibrotic-each requiring distinct management strategies. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation offers life-saving support for severe cases by oxygenating blood outside the body when conventional methods fail. Emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, assist in predicting ARDS progression and personalizing treatment, while protocolized approaches to ventilation, weaning, and early mobilization continue to improve patient outcomes.