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# Terminology of Ventilation Modes A mechanical ventilation mode is defined as a "specific combination of breathing pattern, control type, and operational algorithms" (Chatburn, 2007). The variety and complexity of modern mechanical ventilation modes have dramatically increased with the advent of m...

# Terminology of Ventilation Modes A mechanical ventilation mode is defined as a "specific combination of breathing pattern, control type, and operational algorithms" (Chatburn, 2007). The variety and complexity of modern mechanical ventilation modes have dramatically increased with the advent of microprocessor-controlled ventilators (Branson et al., 2004). Understanding these modes is crucial for matching ventilation to patient needs. This section provides the terminology for basic ventilation modes. ## Volume-Controlled Ventilation Volume-controlled ventilation allows the clinician to set the breath volume (Campbell et al., 2002). The pressure will vary depending on the patient's pulmonary compliance and airway resistance (Figure 3-13). The volume delivered remains constant despite changes in patient condition. The advantage of volume control is the ability to control both tidal volume and minute ventilation (a product of tidal volume times frequency). ## Pressure-Controlled Ventilation Pressure-controlled ventilation allows the clinician to set the peak inspiratory pressure for each breath (Campbell et al., 2002). Since pressure remains constant, the volume and minute ventilation will vary depending on the patient's pulmonary compliance and airway resistance (Figure 3-14). If compliance worsens or resistance increases, the peak inspiratory pressure will decrease, as will tidal volume and minute ventilation. The advantage of pressure control is that it protects the lungs from excessive pressure, thus preventing ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). **Note**: Figures 3-13 and 3-14 are not included in this response. They likely show graphical representations of the different ventilation modes, showing how volume and pressure change over time.