What type of ventilation strategy can lead to volutrauma?

High tidal volume ventilation can lead to volutrauma due to the excessive volume of air delivered to the lungs during mechanical ventilation. When large tidal volumes are used, they can cause over-distension of the alveoli, leading to mechanical stress and injury to the lung parenchyma. This over-distension can result in inflammation, increased permeability of the alveolar-capillary membrane, and ultimately contribute to ventilator-associated lung injury.

In critical care settings, it is essential to avoid this strategy, particularly in patients with pre-existing lung conditions, as it can compromise lung function and lead to worse outcomes. Thus, utilizing lower tidal volumes is often a preferred approach to minimize the risk of volutrauma and enhance patient safety during mechanical ventilation.