Exploring a new ventilation method for patients on mechanical ventilation during surgery

Dead Space in Mechanical Ventilation With Constant Expiratory Flow

Not applicable Interventional University Hospital, Antwerp · NCT06024993

This study is testing a new breathing method during surgery to see if it helps adults on mechanical ventilation clear carbon dioxide better than the standard method.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment13 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Antwerp Academic / other
Locations1 site (Edegem, Antwerp)
Trial IDNCT06024993 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of flow-controlled ventilation (FCV) compared to conventional volume-controlled ventilation (VCV) in patients undergoing elective surgery. The study focuses on how FCV, which maintains a constant expiratory flow, may improve carbon dioxide clearance and reduce dead space ventilation. Participants will be adults aged 18-70 who require controlled mechanical ventilation for at least 60 minutes during surgery. The trial aims to gather data on the potential advantages of FCV in a clinical setting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-70 undergoing elective surgery requiring general anesthesia and controlled mechanical ventilation.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as one lung ventilation, severe COPD, or those with increased intra-abdominal pressure may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved ventilation strategies that enhance patient outcomes during surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with flow-controlled ventilation, indicating potential benefits over traditional methods, though this specific comparison is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults \[18-70\] yrs
* General anaesthesia for elective surgery
* Arterial line, central venous line and endotracheal tube as part of standard of care
* Expected duration of controlled mechanical ventilation ≥ 60 minutes
* Supine position (0±10°)

Exclusion Criteria:

* One lung ventilation
* Known pregnancy
* Increased intra-abdominal pressure (pneumoperitoneum or obesity (BMI \> 30kg/m2))
* COPD GOLD IV or home oxygen dependence
* Cardiac pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or thoracic neurostimulator
* Skin lesions (e.g. injury, inflammation) at the level where the Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) band is to be applied
* Clinical signs of raised intracranial pressure
* Potential interference with the surgery due to the setup of the study instruments.
* Patient refusal to participate

Where this trial is running

Edegem, Antwerp

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Mechanical VentilationArtificial Respiration
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.