Impact of ultra-low tidal volume ventilation on 1-year functional outcome in COVID-19 ARDS patients. A long-term follow-up analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

Critical care (London, England)·July 14, 2026·PMID 42449426

Why it matters

Critical care survivors often face long-term cognitive impairment, and this trial suggests that a ventilation strategy intended to protect the lungs may inadvertently worsen brain function through hypercapnia. Intensivists must weigh the trade-offs of ultra-low tidal volumes against potential neurocognitive harm when managing ARDS.