Intratidal recruitment/derecruitment persists at low and moderate positive end-expiratory pressure in paediatric patients

In conclusion, mechanically ventilated paediatric patients undergo intratidal recruitment/derecruitment which occurs more prominently in younger than in older children. A PEEP of 5 cmH2O does not fully prevent intratidal recruitment/derecruitment but homogenizes regional ventilation in comparison to 2 cmH2O.