Reducing respiratory drive using a novel gas flow system

Feasibility of Reducing Respiratory Drive in Patients with Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure Using the Through-flow System

NA · University Health Network, Toronto · NCT05642832

This study tests a new gas flow system to see if it can help patients on mechanical ventilation breathe better and avoid lung injuries.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto (other)
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT05642832 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the feasibility of a new system called Throughflow, which aims to reduce respiratory drive and prevent diaphragm and lung injury in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. The Throughflow system works by minimizing anatomical dead space during inspiration, allowing for better gas exchange without increasing tidal ventilation. Patients with acute respiratory failure who are on invasive mechanical ventilation will be monitored to assess the impact of this intervention on their respiratory function and overall health outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with acute respiratory failure who are intubated and on invasive mechanical ventilation with specific criteria related to their oxygenation levels.

Not a fit: Patients who are expected to be liberated from mechanical ventilation within 24 hours or have contraindications to esophageal catheterization may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce diaphragm and lung injuries, leading to improved recovery and reduced mortality in patients with respiratory insufficiency.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar studies have indicated that reducing dead space can improve respiratory outcomes, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* PaO2/FiO2 less than or equal to 300 at time of screening
* Oral endotracheal intubation with ETT 7.5 or 8.0 and on invasive mechanical ventilation
* Bilateral airspace opacities on chest radiograph or chest CT scan

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication to esophageal catheterization (upper gastrointestinal tract surgery within preceding 6 weeks, bleeding esophageal/gastric varices)
* Intubation for traumatic brain injury or stroke
* Intracranial hypertension (suspected or diagnosed by medical team)
* Anticipated liberation from mechanical ventilation within 24 hours

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Respiratory Insufficiency, Diaphragm Injury, Lung Injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.