Peroperative Use of Positive End-expiratory Pressure Prevents Formation of Atelectasis as Studied by Computerised Tomography at End of Surgery

Induction of anaesthesia is performed in a conventional manner using a target controlled infusion of propofol and remifentanil. Intubation of the trachea is facilitated by rocuronium. As soon as correct position of the endotracheal tube is confirmed, controlled ventilation is started with a tidal volume of 7 mL/kg body weight and a respiratory frequency of 10. The fresh gas flow is set to 1 litre/min with an oxygen mixture of 40%, aiming for an inspired oxygen fraction (FiO2) of 30-35%. Positive end-expiratory pressure is set to 6 or 8 cm H20 (8 if BMI\>25) in the intervention group. Unless the patient´s SpO2 falls below 90%, the FiO2 remains unchanged throughout the procedure.

Induction of anaesthesia is performed in a conventional manner using a target controlled infusion of propofol and remifentanil. Intubation of the trachea is facilitated by rocuronium. As soon as correct position of the endotracheal tube is confirmed, controlled ventilation is started with a tidal volume of 7 mL/kg body weight and a respiratory frequency of 10. The fresh gas flow is set to 1 litre/min with an oxygen mixture of 40%, aiming for an inspired oxygen fraction (FiO2) of 30-35%. Zero PEEP is used. Unless the patient´s SpO2 falls below 90%, the FiO2 remains unchanged throughout the procedure.