driving pressure
The pressure difference between plateau pressure and PEEP, representing the pressure needed to deliver tidal volume to the lungs.
Full Definition
Driving pressure is calculated as plateau pressure minus PEEP (ΔP = Pplat - PEEP) and represents the net pressure required to inflate the lungs with the set tidal volume. It reflects the stress applied to the lung tissues during mechanical ventilation and is a key parameter in lung-protective strategies. Recent evidence suggests that limiting driving pressure to ≤15 cmH2O may be associated with improved outcomes in ARDS patients. Driving pressure can be reduced by decreasing tidal volume, optimizing PEEP, or improving lung recruitment. It provides a more comprehensive assessment of ventilator-induced lung injury risk than plateau pressure alone.
Usage
Usage note: Often represented by the symbol ΔP; critical parameter in modern lung-protective strategies.
In Context
- "Driving pressure was reduced from 18 to 14 cmH2O by decreasing tidal volume to 6 mL/kg." — Lung-protective ventilation adjustment
- "The patient's driving pressure of 22 cmH2O indicated high risk for ventilator-induced lung injury." — ARDS management assessment