Peep

Peep (also known as Positive end-expiratory pressure) is a strategy used in mechanical ventilation to improve oxygenation and prevent lung collapse in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), among other conditions.

Overview

Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is the pressure in the lungs (alveolar pressure) above atmospheric pressure (the pressure outside of the body) that exists at the end of expiration. The primary purpose of PEEP is to increase the volume of gas remaining in the lungs at the end of expiration in order to decrease the shunting of blood through the lungs and improve gas exchange.

Application

PEEP is a mode of therapy used in intensive care medicine and emergency medicine, as well as in anesthesia. In these settings, PEEP is usually set on the ventilator, but can also be applied with a standalone device for patients breathing spontaneously.

Clinical significance

The application of PEEP in ARDS and other critical conditions can be beneficial, but must be carefully managed due to the potential for lung injury. High levels of PEEP can cause overdistension of the alveoli, leading to barotrauma and volutrauma.

See also

• Mechanical ventilation
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome
• Barotrauma
• Volutrauma

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