What is the goal of ARDS management?

The primary goal of ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) management is to prevent barotrauma. In patients with ARDS, lung compliance is typically decreased, making the lungs more susceptible to injury from mechanical ventilation. Ventilating with high tidal volumes or pressures can lead to over-distension of alveoli, which can cause further lung injury. Therefore, managing ARDS focuses on using protective ventilation strategies, which include lower tidal volumes and careful monitoring of airway pressures to minimize the risk of barotrauma.

While enhancing oxygen delivery, reducing fluid retention, and controlling tidal volume are important aspects of managing ARDS, preventing barotrauma is crucial as it directly addresses the risk of mechanical injury to the already compromised lung tissue. For example, reducing fluid retention helps manage pulmonary edema but does not specifically prevent the additional risk of lung injury from inappropriate ventilation strategies. Thus, the focus on preventing barotrauma is essential for improving patient outcomes in ARDS.