Pressure Support Reduction Versus Spontaneous Breathing Trials in Weaning From Ventilation

A Randomized Controlled Trial on Weaning by Pressure Support Reduction Versus Spontaneous Breathing Trials in a Respiratory ICU

This study is a comparison of two most commonly used modes of weaning and the outcomes in the two groups.

Patients ventilated for more than 24 hours are randomized into two groups - one group of patients undergo gradual reduction of pressure support and in the other, T tube trials are used for weaning. The outcomes are compared in the two groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Mechanically ventilated patients for more than 24 hours
• Satisfies weaning criteria
• RSBI < 80
• Ratio of PaO2/FiO2 > 250
• Arterial partial pressure of oxygen more than 60 mm Hg and carbon dioxide less than 50 mm Hg

Exclusion Criteria:

• Systolic blood pressure of less than 100
• Arterial partial pressure of oxygen less than 60 mm Hg
• Poor sensorium