Correlation between Extravascular Lung Water and Lung Compliance in Mechanically Ventilated Patients in an ICU Setting

Abstract

Background: Mechanical ventilation is essential for managing respiratory failure, but it can lead to complications such as impaired lung compliance and increased extravascular lung water (EVLW). Understanding the relationship between these parameters is crucial for optimizing patient management. Objective: To investigate the correlation between extravascular lung water (EVLW) and lung compliance in mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU of a tertiary care center.
Methods: A total of 60 mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU were included in this study. EVLW was measured using transpulmonary thermodilution, and lung compliance was assessed through ventilatory parameters. Data were collected at baseline and at 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours. Correlation analysis was performed to examine the relationship between EVLW and lung compliance.
Results: The study found a significant negative correlation between EVLW and lung compliance, with Pearson’s correlation coefficient of -0.85 (p < 0.01). As EVLW increased over time, lung compliance decreased. The changes in EVLW and lung compliance were statistically significant at all time points (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The strong negative correlation between EVLW and lung compliance highlights the impact of increased pulmonary edema on lung function in mechanically ventilated patients. Monitoring EVLW and adjusting ventilation strategies accordingly could improve patient outcomes by optimizing fluid management and lung mechanics.
Keywords: Extravascular Lung Water, Lung Compliance, Mechanical Ventilation, ICU, Pulmonary Edema, Transpulmonary Thermodilution