Treatment

Ventilation (Mechanical Ventilation)

Overview

Ventilation, also called mechanical ventilation, is a treatment where a machine called a ventilator helps a person breathe when they are unable to do so on their own. It pushes air (with oxygen) into the lungs and removes carbon dioxide. This support is often given in emergencies, surgeries, or when a person is critically ill and needs help to stay alive. Mechanical ventilation can be short-term (like during surgery) or long-term (for serious lung or brain conditions).

Why Ventilation (Mechanical Ventilation) Treatment is Required?

• When a patient cannot breathe properly or at all on their own
• To support breathing during major surgery under anesthesia
• In severe cases of lung infections, like pneumonia or COVID-19
• In conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or neuromuscular disorders
• During coma or brain injury when natural breathing is impaired
• In cases of drug overdose, poisoning, or trauma affecting the chest
• For newborns or preterm babies with underdeveloped lungs

Key Advantages of Mechanical Ventilation Treatment

• Helps restore oxygen levels quickly in emergency situations
• Gives time for lungs and body to heal by reducing breathing effort
• Maintains life during critical surgeries and intensive care
• Supports patients with weak breathing muscles or blocked airways
• Can be life-saving in severe respiratory or cardiac arrest situations
• Allows monitoring and control of breathing rate, oxygen levels and carbon dioxide
• Provides a controlled and safe environment for healing
• Different types of ventilators in ICU are customized as per patient needs

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Ventilation Treatment

• Most patients needing a ventilator are critically ill and already in a hospital or ICU
• Doctors may perform intubation – inserting a tube through the mouth or nose into the windpipe
• Consent may be required from patient or family members
• Inform doctors about allergies, pre-existing conditions, or current medications
• For planned procedures, fasting before surgery may be required
• Emotional support for family members is important as the patient might be sedated

How Ventilation (Mechanical Ventilation) Treatment is Performed?

• A mechanical ventilator or vent machine is connected to the patient
• A tube (endotracheal or tracheostomy) is placed in the windpipe
• The ventilator machine then delivers controlled air with oxygen into the lungs
• Settings are adjusted based on patient condition: breaths per minute, oxygen level, pressure, etc.
• Continuous monitoring of oxygen, breathing rate, and lung function is done
• Sedation or pain medication is often given to keep the patient comfortable

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before the Procedure:
• Patient is usually unconscious or sedated
• Healthcare team prepares for intubation and ventilator settings
• Monitoring equipment is attached
• During the Procedure:
• Intubation is done using a special tube
• Patient is connected to the mechanical ventilator
• Breathing is now supported or completely controlled by the machine
• After the Procedure:
• Regular suctioning to clear secretions from the lungs
• Chest X-rays or blood tests to monitor progress
• Physical therapy or breathing exercises if long-term support needed
• Doctors plan for weaning off the ventilator once condition improves

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection in the lungs (ventilator-associated pneumonia)
• Lung damage due to pressure (barotrauma)
• Throat or vocal cord injury from the breathing tube
• Difficulty weaning off the ventilator in some patients
• Dependence on the ventilator if the underlying condition worsens
• Air leakage in chest cavity (pneumothorax)
• Blood clots or pressure sores due to prolonged immobility

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients recover and are weaned off the ventilator gradually
• Improved oxygen levels and stable breathing
• Recovery depends on age, health condition, and cause of illness
• In some critical cases, ventilators are used as part of life support machines
• After coming off the ventilator, rehab or breathing support may still be needed