Management of the intensive care patient afflicted by respiratory
insufficiency requires knowledge of the pathophysiological basis for
altered functions. The etiology and therapy of pulmonary diseases, such
as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD) are highly complex. While physiologists and
pathophysiologists work prevalently with theoretical modes, clinicians
employ sophisticated ventilation support technologies in the attempt to
understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of the pulmonary diseases
which can present with varying grades of severity. Despite the
availability of advanced technologies it is common to personalize the
treatment protocol according to the patient's physiologic
structure.Given the complexity and difficulties of treating respiratory
disease, a strong collaboration between clinicians and physiologists is
of fundamtental importance.