Respiratory failure after injury: a review and a plea for accuracy

The more recent developments regarding respiratory failure due to injury are briefly discussed. The manner of presentation of this condition and its pathophysiology are outlined and classified, emphasizing some factors which are common, regardless of cause, and others which are peculiar to certain etiologic factors. The management principles are outlined. A plea is made for standardization and discipline in nomenclature in order to avoid confusion in the minds of writers and readers of this subject and, more importantly, in the management of patients suffering from this condition.