Effect of Volatile Sedation on Spontaneous Breathing During Mechanical Ventilation for Patients With the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how different types of routine sedation affect breathing in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) who are on mechanical ventilation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The study compares inhaled volatile sedation, similar to anesthetic gases, with conventional intravenous sedation. This research aims to understand the impact of sedation methods on patients' breathing efforts and lung function, as well as how sedation influences interaction with the ventilator. Participants will receive both intravenous sedation (such as propofol) and inhaled volatile sedation (Isoflurane) delivered via the AnaConDa device. The study involves an initial 2-hour observation period on intravenous sedation, followed by a 6-hour period of inhaled sedation which includes 2 hours for washout and establishment, and 4 hours of observation. After this, patients will return to their original intravenous sedation for another 2-hour observation. Opioid infusion will be maintained at baseline levels during inhaled sedation unless clinical reasons require adjustment. During the study, researchers will closely monitor respiratory drive, breathing efforts, and lung function using several measures like respiratory effort and gas exchange parameters over an 8-hour period. Patients will be assessed while sedated and on mechanical ventilation, with attention to sedation scores and ventilatory support stability. The study is expected to continue until July 2027 and includes detailed monitoring to understand the effects of sedation type on breathing in ARDS patients.

Volatile Sedation for Patients With the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome