[Inversed ratio ventilation (IRV) following cardiosurgical procedures]

Based on our positive experiences with "Inversed Ratio Ventilation" (IRV) in the treatment of ARDS, we applied this ventilation technique in patients with risk lungs after cardiosurgical operations. Immediately, after switching from conventional ventilation mode (I/E ratio 1:2) to IRV (I/E 2:1), however significant hemodynamic reactions could be observed. Especially a significant decrease of cardiac output can be observed in this phase. IRV leads to an improvement of gas exchange and lung mechanics. These improvement become even more significant continuing IRV. A decreasing tendency of the negative hemodynamic effects can be observed parallel to lung mechanics improvement. Carefully managed respirators adjustment, "step-wise" prolongation of I/E ratio and closed observation on hemodynamic reactions leads to successful use of Inversed Ratio Ventilation in cardiosurgical patients too.