High-frequency percussive ventilation using the VDR-4 ventilator: an effective strategy for patients with refractory hypoxemia.

High-frequency percussive ventilation (HFPV) has been used for patients with severe respiratory compromise refractory to conventional mechanical ventilation. It frequently results in equivalent or improved oxygenation and ventilation at lower peak pressures than conventional ventilation, thus minimizing secondary ventilator-associated lung injury. The only ventilator currently available that delivers HFPV is the volume diffusive respirator (VDR-4; Percussionaire Corp, Sandpoint, Idaho).

Critically ill patients with H1N1 influenza A undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

The most common cause of death due to the H1N1 subtype of influenza A virus (swine flu) in the 2009 to 2010 epidemic was severe acute respiratory failure that persisted despite advanced mechanical ventilation strategies. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was used as a salvage therapy for patients refractory to traditional treatment. At Legacy Emanuel Hospital, Portland, Oregon, the epidemic resulted in a critical care staffing crisis.