Complications of long-term mechanical ventilation.

Complications of LTMV should be considered in the context of underlying diseases and comorbidities, the trigger for ventilator dependency, and site of care. These factors have an impact on outcome and on the type and severity of complications. In view of the complexity of chronically ill VAIs, complications of mechanical ventilation become the major impediment in achieving the ultimate goal of LTMV, extending life, and improving psychophysiologic function and quality of life. Efforts should not be spared to prevent and aggressively treat these complications while continuing plans to wean and rehabilitate the patient.