Spontaneous breathing trial: the key to a successful extubation

Abstract

Invasive mechanical ventilation is essential in the management of the critically ill patient. However, unnecessarily prolonging it can bring serious complications. The spontaneous breathing trial is one of the most important assessments to make the decision to withdraw this vital support. This trial consists of simulating post-extubation ventilation and thus recognizing patients who are in a condition to withdraw ventilatory support. Although its application is widely recommended, there are various methodologies for carrying out the trial. The goal of this article is to present a narrative review of the different ways of performing spontaneous breathing trials, the evidence, and its application in different clinical scenarios.

Keywords

• Mechanical ventilation. Weaning. Spontaneous breathing trial. Extubation. Physiotherapy.