The prone position ventilation (PPV) as an approach in pregnancy with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

Abstract

Objective: In Taiwan, the overall incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is 15.74 per 100,000 person-years, the mortality rate is 57.8%, and its overall prevalence in the intensive care unit (ICU) is 10.4%. Women who are pregnant and have ARDS have a high risk of fetal death and fetal asphyxia. Case report: A 26-1/7-week pregnant woman presented with upper respiratory infection symptoms progressing to ARDS. While receiving ventilation, maintaining a prone position is an option for pregnant patients with severe ARDS. This case demonstrated a supplementary approach for pregnant women with ARDS. Conclusion: Prone position ventilation is indicated for pregnant women, as for any patient with ARDS. The Proning Severe ARDS Patients trial showed no difference in the complication between pregnant patients and other groups.