What are the sequelae in survivors of ARDS?

  • The spectrum of impairments in survivors of ARDS is broad
Patient Sequelae
  • Persistent functional limitation:
    • Primarily due to extrapulmonary manifestations
    • <50% returned to work at 12 months
  • Neuromuscular dysfunction:
    • Critical illness polyneuropathy
    • Critical illness myopathy
  • Airway complications:
    • Tracheostomy site complications
    • Vocal cord palsy
  • Respiratory Dysfunction:
    • Significant limitation surprisingly unusual
    • Minor changes on x-ray present at 1 year in 20%
    • Lung volume and spirometric measurements normal at 6months
  • Neuropsychological Impairment:
    • Depression
    • Anxiety
    • PTSD
    • Financial Burden
  • General ICU complications:
    • Frozen joints
    • Striae
    • Entrapment neuropathy
    • Cosmetic disfigurements
Caregiver Burdens
  • Depression and PTSD during and after ICU stay
  • Cost and time of providing care