Advanced
Technical
IVT
recruitment maneuver
A ventilation technique using sustained high pressures to reopen collapsed alveoli.
Full Definition
A recruitment maneuver is a ventilation strategy that applies sustained high airway pressures to recruit collapsed or poorly ventilated alveoli in patients with acute lung injury. Common techniques include sustained inflation to 35-40 cmH2O for 30-40 seconds or incremental PEEP trials. In pediatric patients, recruitment maneuvers must be carefully monitored due to the risk of hemodynamic compromise and pneumothorax. The maneuver should be followed by appropriate PEEP levels to maintain recruitment.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'maneuver' (American spelling) in US clinical documentation, 'manoeuvre' in British contexts.
In Context
- "A recruitment maneuver was performed with sustained inflation to 35 cmH2O for 40 seconds." — Ventilator management note
- "The recruitment maneuver resulted in improved oxygenation and reduced FiO2 requirements." — Progress note
Also known as
lung recruitment
alveolar recruitment
Contrasted with
derecruitment
Don't confuse with
PEEP titration
pressure support
sigh breaths