Causes of dysfunctional ventilatory weaning response after cardiac surgery

Aim. The aim of this study was to assess the causes of dysfunctional ventilatory weaning response after cardiac surgery
Background. One of the most important complications after cardiac surgery is the prolonged mechanical ventilation, because it is associated with the increase in mortality (30-40%). Extubation of endotracheal tube within the 6 hours post operation is considered as a gold standard improving heart function, increasing patients’ comfort, decreasing respiratory complication, and decreasing cost and hospitalization. The prolonged mechanical ventilation and dysfunctional ventilatory weaning response (DVWR) are the risk factors for cardiac surgery and controlling and preventing them is necessary.
Method. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study in which 80 patients admitted to Cardiac Surgery Department of Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad were selected within a 4 months period by convenience sampling method. Patients with mechanical ventilation over 6 hours were recruited. Data were analyzed in SPSS software.
Findings. DVWR was significantly associated with smoking (p=0.03), and delayed recovery from anesthesia was the most common reason associating with DVWR (55.3%).
Conclusion. By controlling factors of the DVWR, we can reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation.