On the horizon: liquid ventilation.

Studies in preterm animals and humans have shown that liquid ventilation is a potential alternative mode of support for neonates with respiratory failure. Perfluorochemicals have a high solubility for respiratory gases and can be instilled in the lung using lower pressures than with gas ventilation. Other potential advantages of liquid ventilation include decreased alveolar surface tension, improved pulmonary mechanics, alveolar recruitment, and the removal of pulmonary debris. This article describes in detail what liquid ventilation is, compares the physiologic effects of liquid ventilation to gas ventilation, and presents the nursing implications of this technique. A review of the recent literature on the subject is presented, including reports of laboratory and clinical experience with liquid ventilation.