High-frequency jet ventilation in the pediatric intensive care unit.

Scientific data and anecdote on the utility of HFJV in children remain divergent. There seems to be some evidence that ventilation and oxygenation in critically ill patients can sometimes be achieved at lower peak airway pressures and tidal volumes. There is also growing consensus that HFJV may be a superior ventilatory technique for patients with air leak syndrome. However, conclusive evidence of the effect of this technology on overall survival, length of ventilation, or even resource consumption remains illusive. Until such time, a general recommendation for the use of HFJV in pediatric patients is not possible.