Left ventricular overloading identified by critical care echocardiography is key in weaning-induced pulmonary edema.

Purpose: To assess the role of left ventricular overload and cumulated fluid balance in the development weaning-induced pulmonary edema (WIPO).

Methods: Ventilated patients in sinus rhythm with COPD and/or heart failure (ejection fraction ≤ 40%) were studied. Echocardiography was performed immediately before and during a 30-min spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) using a T-tube.