Incidence and Evolution of Heart-lung Interaction in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an inflammatory injury of the lungs caused by various serious illnesses, such as a bacterial or viral lung infection. It is treated by artificial ventilation with the application of positive pressure. Pulmonary injury, coupled with artificial ventilation, can lead to right heart failure which hinders the ejection of blood to the pulmonary circulation. Modern mechanical ventilation modalities have reduced the frequency ("incidence") of this right heart failure in acute respiratory distress syndrome. A large-scale study has shown this a few years ago. However, the evolution of right heart failure during artificial ventilation, and the consequences it has on the patient's cardiovascular status are poorly determined. This study is conducted to improve knowledge in this area. In adult patients hospitalized in intensive care presenting acute respiratory distress syndrome, the investigators will collect the data recorded on cardiac ultrasound, doses of cardiovascular drugs as well as variables reflecting hemodynamic status and cell oxygenation. Data will be collected during the course of ARDS and mechanical ventilation, as well as after weaning from artificial ventilation.