Posttraumatic pulmonary insufficiency: a treatable disease.

ABSTRACT

Posttraumatic pulmonary insufficiency was treated using positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), intermittent mandatory ventilation, and cardiovascular monitoring and support. These were begun when intrapulmonary shunt exceeded 15% and before development of hypoxemia despite high inspired oxygen fractions; or retention of CO2; or infiltrative changes on roentgenogram. Of 39 patients treated, 28 required aggressive intervention with levels of PEEP up to 40 cm H2O and support of cardiovascular function with fluids, blood, and ionitropic agents. Those sustaining blunt trauma required the same level of interventions as those with penetrating trauma, but for a significantly longer time. All had reversal of respiratory failure with reduction of shunt to 15%. There were no deaths from respiratory failure or the treatment modalities. Early aggressive treatment for all cases was successful and allowed differentiation of the severity of the original insult.