Pneumologie
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Mechanical ventilation is indicated in acute respiratory failure, especially in so-called pump failure as occurs in status asthmaticus, pneumonia and ARDS due to respiratory muscle fatigue. Using clinical parameters (inspiratory paradox, respiratory alternans), together with blood gas analysis and chest X-ray morphology, the indication can be established on a rational basis. ⋯ Respiratory muscle rest can be assessed by monitoring tracheal pressure time curves. Unconventional methods using very small t idal volumes and very high frequency so far have no clearcut indications, as they are still investigational.