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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for RESPIRATORY INSUFFICIENCY are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

acute respiratory distress syndrome adult acute respiratory distress syndrome respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants respiratory failure

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