A randomized controlled trial evaluates PEEP combined with recruitment manoeuvre to reduce postoperative atelectasis in obese patients, suggesting improved outcomes.
Key Points
To assess the efficacy of combined PEEP and recruitment manoeuvre in preventing postoperative atelectasis in obese patients undergoing surgery.
Conducted a parallel-group randomized controlled trial at a single center.
Ninety obese patients were randomized into three groups: RM, PEEP, and combined interventions, with 30 patients in each group.
Primary outcomes included the incidence of atelectasis measured via chest CT within 48 hours postoperatively.
The overall incidence of atelectasis was 34.4%, with lower rates in the combined group (13.3%) compared to RM (46.7%) and PEEP (43.3%) groups.
Significant differences in the proportion of atelectatic area favored the combined group (2.56% vs. 4.13% vs. 5.94%).
Oxygenation indices were higher in the combined group, indicating better respiratory function.