High-frequency percussive ventilation revisited.

High-frequency percussive ventilation (HFPV) has demonstrated a potential role as a rescue option for refractory acute respiratory distress syndrome and as a method for improving inhalation injury outcomes. Nevertheless, there is a lack of literature examining the practical application of HFPV theory toward either improving gas exchange or preventing possible ventilator-induced lung injury. This article will discuss the clinically pertinent aspects of HFPV, inclusive of high- and low-frequency ventilation.