During invasive mechanical ventilation, a breathing tube is inserted into the windpipe and fresh air is delivered to the patient’s lungs. Mechanical ventilation is typically used during a surgical procedure when a patient is under general anesthesia or in patients with the following conditions:

  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease), myasthenia gravis, spinal cord injuries or other conditions where the nerves that control breathing are damaged
  • Lung diseases such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and pneumonia, where lung function is impaired
  • Coma, stroke and traumatic brain injuries where a person’s ability to breath may be affected

While the use of invasive mechanical ventilation can be lifesaving in someone with these conditions, there are risks associated with this procedure, including infections, collapsed lung or damage to the vocal cords or lungs. For more information about invasive mechanical ventilation or the wide range of respiratory services and treatments at St. Charles Health System, call 541-706-5860 today.

St. Charles Health System in Central Oregon uses invasive mechanical ventilation along with a range of other respiratory treatments and technologies to help patients who live with and experience symptoms of lung disease.