Artificial lung ventilation (ALV) is a critical technology in pediatric intensive care, allowing to support breathing in children with severe respiratory disorders. However, unlike adult patients, the use of ALV in children requires a special approach from both a technical and clinical point of view.
The respiratory system of a child differs significantly from that of an adult both anatomically and functionally:
narrow airways;
higher respiratory rate;
sensitivity to changes in pressure and volume;
risk of barotrauma and hypoventilation even with minor deviations in parameters.
Cases of using ALV in newborns and premature babies are especially difficult - any error in the settings can cause severe complications: barotrauma, hypoventilation, impaired gas exchange.
Modern pediatric ventilators have a number of specific characteristics:
Precise dosing of ventilation parameters. The inhalation volume should be very small - from 4-6 ml / kg of body weight.
Sensory sensitivity. It is important that the device "tests" each spontaneous breath of the child, without disturbing the natural rhythm.
Compatibility with non-invasive methods. In pediatrics, masks or nasal cannulas are often used, especially for stabilization.
To reduce risks and increase the effectiveness of therapy, modern ventilators have special adaptations:
Pediatric breathing circuits - reduced volume of dead space to avoid re-inhalation of CO₂.
Integrated monitoring systems - control saturation, airway pressure, respiratory rate.
Flexible software allows you to quickly change ventilation modes in accordance with the age, condition and body weight of the child.
Acoustic and visual alarm indication – given the rapid changes in the condition of small patients, the alarm system should be as informative as possible.
Children's ventilators are high-precision systems adapted to the slightest changes in the physiology of patients. The choice of the right equipment, timely adaptation of parameters and professionalism of the medical staff are the key to the safety and effectiveness of the child's treatment.
