Ventilator dysfunction: role of graphics in detection

Abstract

Analysis of ventilator graphics is useful in a few situations for detecting ventilator dysfunction. However, there is a paucity of literature as to what sort of dysfunctions can be detected. We report two cases in which the graphics enabled us to identify ventilator dysfunction in patients who were on mechanical ventilation. Analysing the graphics and not looking at numbers alone enabled us to take timely corrective actions, thereby preventing morbidity. Both patients ultimately achieved a complete recovery.