Objective: Pool the published data of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) about the effect of low volume ventilation in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and evaluate if low volume ventilation can reduce the mortality of ARDS.
Methods: MEDLINE and CBM discs from 1991 to 2001 were selected for the data sources. The inclusion criteria were: the subjects were patients with ARDS, the study lasted 10 days or more and was RCT, the mortality of ARDS in low volume ventilation group was compared with that in traditional ventilation group. The data of the studies included were processed with a meta-analysis.
Results: 1,435 cases in 7 studies were included, 5 of 7 studies did not show significant different mortalities between the two treatment groups and 2 studies indicated the low volume ventilation could improved the survival of ARDS. The mortalities of ARDS in low tidal volume ventilation group and traditional ventilation group were 35.98% (258/717) and 42.62% (306/718) respectively. The combined OR of all studies was 0.754 (95% CI 0.610 - 0.933), P < 0.01.
Conclusion: Low volume ventilation benefits the survival of ARDS. It is worth application in clinical practice.