How is plateau pressure measured and what does it represent?

Plateau pressure measured by inspiratory hold maneuver (0.5s) in volume control ventilation with no patient effort (requires paralysis or heavy sedation). Represents alveolar pressure at end-inspiration - surrogate for lung overdistension. Pplat >30 cmH2O associated with VILI and barotrauma. Target Pplat <=30 cmH2O in ARDS (ARDSnet standard).

Can peak pressure substitute for plateau pressure monitoring?

No. Peak airway pressure reflects airway resistance plus lung compliance. Pplat reflects alveolar distension. High peak pressure with normal Pplat (bronchospasm, secretions, kinking) does not cause VILI. High Pplat regardless of peak pressure indicates lung overdistension risk. Always use Pplat to guide tidal volume adjustment in ARDS.

Plateau Pressure Target in Lung Protective Ventilation

Calculate and target plateau pressure <=30 cmH2O in volume-controlled ventilation for ARDS and at-risk mechanically ventilated patients to prevent barotrauma and ventilator-induced lung injury.

⚕ Clinical Disclaimer: These calculators are for educational and reference purposes only. Always verify results with qualified clinical judgment and current clinical guidelines. Do not use as a sole basis for medical decisions.

How to Use

Enter the values for the scenario you are assessing. Calculate and target plateau pressure <=30 cmH2O in volume-controlled ventilation for ARDS and at-risk mechanically ventilated patients to prevent barotrauma and ventilator-induced lung injury. Use the plateau pressure target result to inform your calculation.

Related Calculators

Driving Pressure ARDSnet

Medical Long-tail

PEEP ARDS Setting