Optimum PEEP in lobar pneumonia - Intrapulmonary shunt

Q: High Positive End Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) can make hypoxemia worse in lobar pneumonia? (select one)

A) True
B) False


Answer: A

The objective of the above question is to highlight the understanding of optimum PEEP, as well as to know the consequences of higher than a required PEEP. In lobar pathology of the lung, higher PEEP may compress the healthy alveoli due to their higher elasticity and adaptability, and so the intraalveolar capillaries. This results in the intrapulmonary shunting, diverting the blood to the diseased areas of the lung.

#pulmonary
#ventilators


Reference:

Hasan FM, Beller TA, Sobonya RE, et al. Effect of positive end-expiratory pressure and body position in unilateral lung injury. J Appl Physiol Respir Environ Exerc Physiol 1982; 52:147.