Mean airway pressure

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Mean airway pressure typically refers to the mean pressure applied during

hemodynamic performance, and barotrauma.[2] It can also match the alveolar pressure if there is no difference between inspiratory and expiratory resistance.[3]

Equations

There are several equations aimed at determining the real mean airway pressure.

Volume control ventilation

In ventilation with a square flow waveform this equation can be used:

where:

  • = mean airway pressure
  • = peak inspiratory pressure
  • = peak end expiratory pressure
  • = inspiratory time
  • = cycle time

Pressure control ventilation

During pressure control ventilation this variant of the equation can be used:

where:

  • = mean airway pressure
  • = peak inspiratory pressure
  • = peak end expiratory pressure
  • = inspiratory time
  • = cycle time[3]

Airway pressure release ventilation

Variables of APRV schematic

In airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) a variation of the previous equation must be used for the variables:

where:
  • = mean airway pressure
  • = peak inspiratory pressure (PIP)
  • = peak end expiratory pressure
  • = time spent at
  • = time spent at [4]

Other equations

[5]

Clinical significance

Mean airway pressure has been shown to have a similar correlation as plateau pressure to mortality.[6]

MAP is closely associated with mean alveolar pressure and shows the stresses exerted on the lung parenchyma on mechanical ventilation.[7]

In high frequency oscillatory ventilation, it has been suggested to set the mean airway pressure six above the lower inflection point on the lungs P-V curve.[8]

See also

References