volutrauma
Pronunciation: vol-yoo-TRAW-mah
Lung injury caused by overdistension of alveoli due to excessive tidal volumes during mechanical ventilation, a key concern in pediatric respiratory management.
Full Definition
Volutrauma refers to lung injury that occurs when alveolar structures are overdistended by excessive tidal volumes during mechanical ventilation. This form of ventilator-induced lung injury is particularly concerning in pediatric patients due to their smaller lung volumes and greater susceptibility to barotrauma. Volutrauma can lead to alveolar rupture, inflammatory response activation, and worsening of underlying lung pathology. Prevention strategies include limiting tidal volumes to 6-8 mL/kg of predicted body weight, using pressure-limited ventilation modes, and implementing lung-protective ventilation strategies. Recognition and prevention of volutrauma are essential components of contemporary pediatric critical care practice.
In Context
- "Lung-protective ventilation strategies were implemented to prevent volutrauma in this patient with ARDS." — Respiratory management protocol
- "The development of pneumothorax raised concern for volutrauma secondary to high tidal volumes." — Clinical complication report