Mechanical ventilation is one of the most common interventions made in intensive care. It is often lifesaving, but there are life-threatening side effects associated with its use.

The main purpose of ventilation is to control or support the function of the lungs to allow adequate gas exchange and provide life support without causing harm to the lungs and the patient. Ventilation can cause damage to the lungs (ventilator-induced lung injury [VILI]), infection (ventilator-associated pneumonia [VAP]), sinus infection, and diaphragmatic dysfunction.

A sound knowledge of the underlying principles of mechanical ventilation is required for its effective and safe implementation.