What term describes the shearing of alveoli caused by excessively large tidal volumes?

The term that describes the shearing of alveoli caused by excessively large tidal volumes is known as volutrauma. This condition occurs when the lung is subjected to high volumes of air that exceed its capacity, leading to injury of the alveolar walls. The excessive stretching can cause disruption of the surfactant layer, leading to atelectasis and increased permeability of the alveolar-capillary membrane, which can result in pulmonary edema. Volutrauma is particularly relevant in mechanical ventilation settings where managing tidal volume is crucial to prevent lung injury. By recognizing and addressing volutrauma, healthcare providers can take measures to protect the lungs from further damage while ensuring adequate ventilation.