New breathing technique could help obese heart surgery patients avoid ICU complications

NCT ID NCT07409324

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a specific ventilator mode called APRV can improve breathing and oxygen levels in very obese patients after elective heart surgery. 180 adults with a BMI of 40 or higher (or 35 with related health issues) will be randomly assigned to receive either APRV or standard ventilation after surgery. The goal is to see if APRV leads to better lung function, fewer breathing problems, and shorter ICU stays.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Airway Pressure Release Ventilation (APRV) - a mode on a mechanical ventilator
What this could lead to
If it works, this could lead to a standard way to help very obese patients breathe easier after heart surgery, potentially reducing ICU stays and breathing complications.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage study (not yet recruiting) with only 180 patients, so results may not apply to everyone. The intervention is a device mode, not a drug, so benefits may be modest and risks include ventilator-related lung injury or discomfort.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

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