Reduction of peak inspiratory pressure using high frequency jet ventilation and pressure control ventilation following pneumonectomy.

High peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) during mechanical ventilation is associated with increased risk of barotrauma. High frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) and pressure control ventilation (PCV) have been advocated for the reduction of PIP. The Food and Drug Administration has approved HFJV, respiratory frequency as high as 150 breaths per minute (bpm); however, bpm greater than 150 are still considered for experimental use. At less than 40 bpm, the point where HFJV is no longer considered to be high frequency, PCV is substituted which then becomes the mode of choice because of the ability to control ventilating pressures by setting the PIP. We present a case in which we used these two forms of ventilation for reducing the risk of stump blowout and barotrauma following pneumonectomy.