Oxford researchers seek better way to open collapsed lungs in ICU

NCT ID NCT05508724

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This University of Oxford study looked at 48 ICU patients on ventilators for respiratory failure. Doctors sometimes inflate the lungs briefly (a recruitment manoeuvre) to reopen collapsed areas, but it's unclear when this helps. Researchers used a device to measure lung volume and see if pressure-volume curves can predict which patients benefit. The goal is to improve decision-making for this common ICU procedure.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to
If successful, this could help doctors better decide when to perform recruitment manoeuvres in ventilated patients, potentially improving lung function.
What could go wrong
This is a small, observational study (48 participants) that aims to understand a measurement technique, not to test a new treatment. Results may not apply to all ICU patients.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Royal Berkshire Hospital, Royal Berkshire Foundation Trust

    Reading, RG1 5AN, United Kingdom

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