Influence of positive end-expiratory pressure on myocardial strain assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography in mechanically ventilated patients.

Purpose: The effects of mechanical ventilation (MV) on speckle tracking echocardiography- (STE-)derived variables are not elucidated. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation on 4-chamber longitudinal strain (LS) analysis by STE.

Methods: We studied 20 patients admitted to a mixed intensive care unit who required intubation for MV and PEEP titration due to hypoxia.

Recruitment maneuver in prevention of hypoxia during percutaneous dilational tracheostomy: randomized trial.

Background: Percutaneous dilational tracheostomy (PDT) can potentially lead to hypoxia and alveolar derecruitment. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of performing a recruitment maneuver (RM) before tracheostomy, in order to improve oxygenation.

Methods: We enrolled 29 eligible trauma patients with acute lung injury criteria requiring tracheostomy in a university ICU.