What is the purpose of Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (IMV)?

Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (IMV) is designed to support patients who may require temporary ventilation assistance while still allowing for some spontaneous breathing. This mode of ventilation provides a combination of mandatory breaths, which are delivered at set intervals, and allows the patient the ability to initiate spontaneous breaths between those mandatory breaths. The primary purpose is to facilitate weaning from mechanical ventilation by encouraging the patient to take breaths on their own while still receiving the necessary support.

This approach helps in maintaining the patient’s respiratory muscle strength and overall autonomy, thus promoting recovery. It allows for a more gradual transition to independent breathing compared to modes that either completely control ventilation or completely allow spontaneous breathing without any mandatory assist.