Photo Credit: Jitendrajadhav
The following is a Summary of “Validation of math model using porous media for determining alveolar CO2 in ventilated patients,” published in the October 2024 issue of Critical Care by Jiménez-Posada et al.
A mathematical model using porous media theory is being applied to understand CO2 levels in the lungs of ventilated patients. This model helps analyze how gases move through the lung tissues during mechanical ventilation.
Researchers conducted a prospective study validating the effectiveness of a mathematical model determining alveolar CO2 in patients who are on ventilators.
They conducted a mathematical modeling study, simulating CO2 exchange from the bloodstream to the airway entrance, in 13 patients in the ICU who were critically ill and had no acute or chronic lung disease. No interventions were made during the study. The model underwent prospective clinical validation.
The results showed that the model outcomes compared with patient data showed strong correlations for end-tidal CO2 (0.918), which is under the CO2 curve (0.954), and PaCO2 (0.995). Determination coefficients (R2) were 0.843, 0.910, and 0.990, indicating high precision and strong predictive power.
Investigators concluded that the mathematical model shows promise in pulmonary critical care but requires more validation, clinician training, and patient-specific adjustments before practical use. The journey to clinical application will involve ongoing validation and education efforts.
