In-line Mechanical Insufflation-Exsufflation in the Management of Ventilated Patients

Catheter suction (CS), the standard method for airway secretion management during mechanical ventilation, is invasive and has significant hemodynamic and traumatic side effects. In-line mechanical insufflation-exsufflation (IL-MIE) is a new, noninvasive technology that clears secretions by cough-simulation, without interrupting ongoing ventilation. It is not known whether IL-MIE can be safely and effectively used as an alternative to CS in ventilated patients. Methods: A randomized, controlled, non-inferiority study comparing a standard protocol of CS, with automatic IL-MIE (CoughSync, Ruxin Medical Systems, Beijing) performed every 30 minutes, with CS added only if needed, in post-operative ventilated patients.