What is a common complication of mechanical ventilation in burn patients?

Barotrauma is a common complication associated with mechanical ventilation, particularly in burn patients. These individuals often have compromised pulmonary function due to thermal injury and associated inhalation injuries, which can lead to decreased lung compliance and increased airway pressures when ventilated.

Mechanical ventilation delivers positive pressure to the lungs, and if this pressure becomes excessive, it can cause damage to the lung parenchyma and the alveoli—resulting in barotrauma. The risk is further heightened in burn patients, who may have underlying pulmonary edema or altered lung characteristics due to their injuries.

Barotrauma manifests as pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, or subcutaneous emphysema, which can severely complicate the patient's condition. Monitoring and adjusting the ventilator settings carefully are crucial to avoid excessive pressures, thus minimizing the risk of this serious complication.

While the other complications listed may occur in mechanically ventilated patients, barotrauma is particularly relevant given the unique pathophysiology of burn injuries and the ventilatory pressures often utilized in their management.