“Hypercapnic respiratory failure can be preserved thanks to the use of extracorporeal techniques dedicated to CO2 removal “
Respiratory failure is a condition characterized by an alteration of the respiratory system function. Consequently, gas exchange and O2/CO2 blood levels are altered. The main cause is associated with gas exchange impairment and/or ventilation reduction.
In case of elevated CO2 blood levels, hypercapnic respiratory failure occurs as a consequence of the mechanical ventilation. Invasive lung-protective, based predominantly on low tidal volume, and non-invasive mechanical ventilations, can cause CO2 accumulation and consequent development of severe hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis.
Hypercapnic respiratory failure can therefore be preserved thanks to the use of extracorporeal techniques dedicated to CO2 removal and with the aim to:
- Facilitate invasive mechanical ventilation based on low tidal volume;
- Reduce CO2 accumulation, in case of non-invasive mechanical ventilation, and avoid invasive ventilation upgrade.