Mathematically optimized mechanical power as a potential approach for tailored lung protection

During mechanical ventilation, obtaining mechanical power might allow us to tailor energy applied to the respiratory system, however its use is not widespread and adjustment can be cumbersome. A mathematical optimization could solve that process and guide our ventilation with more precision and personalization according to individual patient characteristics.

After converting mechanical power to a function of tidal volume during a theoretical steady state, then optimizing by solving the lowest possible value for a given set of constants, in terms of tidal volume, we can achieve the theoretically safest approximation to the mechanical ventilation to any given patient, in a personalized way, that can be readjusted as required at the bedside with variables readily obtained with modern ventilators. This solution is designed to be used in volume-controlled ventilation for patients with no effort.

Mathematical optimization can find the balance of tidal volume and respiratory rate that minimizes mechanical power applied to any individual patient in certain conditions.