[Control and assist-control modes of mechanical ventilation].

Control ventilation is a mode of ventilation in which the respirator delivers the preset volume or pressure regardless of the patient's own inspiratory efforts. It is indicated in patients with severe neurological alterations, deep sedation, shock or severe respiratory failure. In this mode, breathing is performed by the respirator, diminishing energy expenditure and reducing the risk of hypo- and hyperventilation. In the assist-control ventilation mode the respirator delivers the preset number of breaths and the patient may also obtain further breaths by making a sufficient respiratory effort to open the triggering sensor. All respiration (preset and patient initiated) is performed by the respirator. Assist-control ventilation is indicated inpatients without deep sedation who are able to initiate respiration but who cannot maintain spontaneous respiration.