Reducing respiratory drive using a novel gas flow system
Official title: Feasibility of Reducing Respiratory Drive in Patients with Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure Using the Through-flow System
Run by University Health Network, Toronto · NCT05642832 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2025 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | December 11, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT05642832 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: While the approach is innovative, similar studies have indicated that reducing dead space can improve respiratory outcomes, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
University Health Network
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ewan Goligher, MD, PhD — University Health Network, Toronto
- Study coordinator: Rongyu ( Cindy) Jin
- Email: rongyu.jin@uhn.ca
- Phone: 4163404800
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.