Volume-targeted ventilation: one size does not fit all. Evidence-based recommendations for successful use

Abstract

Despite level 1 evidence for important benefits of volume-targeted ventilation (VTV), many vulnerable extremely preterm infants continue to be exposed to traditional pressure-controlled ventilation. Lack of suitable equipment and a lack of appreciation of the fact that ‘one size does NOT fit all’ appear to contribute to the slow uptake of VTV. This review attempts to improve clinicians’ understanding of the way VTV works and to provide essential information about evidence-based tidal volume (VT) targets. Focus on underlying lung pathophysiology, individualised ventilator settings and VTtargets are keys to successful use of VTV thereby improving important clinical outcomes.