The optimum strategy for mechanical ventilation in a child with status asthmaticus is not established. Volume-controlled ventilation continues to be the traditional approach in such children. Pressure-controlled ventilation may be theoretically more advantageous in allowing for more uniform ventilation. We describe our experience with pressure-controlled ventilation in children with severe respiratory failure from status asthmaticus.
Division of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Michigan, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA. Asarnaik@med.wayne.edu
