The ARDSnet Study

The ARDSnet Study was a landmark clinical trial that investigated the best way to ventilate patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a serious lung condition. The study found that using “low tidal volume” ventilation—delivering smaller breaths—reduces lung injury and improves survival compared to traditional larger breaths. This approach minimizes additional lung damage from mechanical ventilation, leading to better outcomes. The findings changed critical care practices worldwide, emphasizing lung-protective strategies to improve survival rates in ARDS patients.