Fluid Balance and Weaning from Mechanical Ventilation

Abstract

Volume overload is frequently encountered in intensive care unit patients, especially in patients with sepsis and/or mechanical ventilation. Volume overload is associated with a prolongation of mechanical ventilation in general and of the weaning period in particular. It is a major contributing factor to cardiovascular weaning failure, including failed spontaneous breathing trial and failed extubation. A strategy of restrictive fluid management shortens the duration of mechanical ventilation, including weaning length.