ARDS is a frequent reason for hospitalization in intensive care. In order to improve its management, doctors seek to limit the mechanical ventilation-induced injuries (VILI) that can occur. PEEP is a parameter that plays a role in the appearance of VILI, and its adjustment can be optimized by EIT. The EIT is a non-invasive, non-irradiating, real-time monitoring device, today widely used for the optimization of ventilation in patients intubated for ARDS. The positioning of the EIT belt at different chest heights could influence the result of the PEEP titration.
Occurrence of moderate to severe ARDS (PaO2/FiO2 ratio ≤ 200 mmHg) within 72 hours following intubation
Criteria for moderate to severe ARDS for less than 72 hours
Passive ventilation in controlled assisted ventilation (no spontaneous ventilation)
Consent of next of kin
Age < 18 years
ECMO
Pneumothorax
Pacemaker or implantable defibrillator