ventiliatoriai

Ventilatoriai, commonly known as ventilators in English, are medical devices used to support breathing in patients who are unable to breathe adequately on their own. These machines provide mechanical ventilation by delivering oxygen and air into the lungs through a tube inserted into the trachea, known as an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy tube. Ventilators are critical in intensive care units (ICUs) and are frequently used for patients with severe respiratory conditions, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, or those recovering from surgeries that affect breathing.

Ventilators operate by cycling between inhalation and exhalation phases, controlling the volume or pressure of air delivered to the lungs. They can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of a patient, including the rate of breathing, tidal volume (amount of air delivered per breath), and oxygen concentration. Modern ventilators often feature advanced capabilities, such as synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV) and pressure support, to improve patient comfort and reduce the risk of complications like ventilator-associated lung injury.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, ventilators became highly sought-after due to the high number of patients requiring respiratory support. This increased demand led to global efforts to expand production and repurpose existing medical equipment. While ventilators are life-saving tools, their use carries risks, including ventilator-induced lung injury, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and discomfort for the patient. Proper training, monitoring, and management by healthcare professionals are essential to minimize these risks and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Ventilators come in various types, including invasive (requiring intubation) and non-invasive (using masks or helmets) models. Non-invasive ventilation is often used for patients with less severe respiratory distress, allowing them to remain conscious and avoid the discomfort and risks associated with intubation. The choice of ventilator type and settings depends on the patient’s condition, medical history, and the clinical judgment of healthcare providers.