Spontaneous breathing trial in the weaning process from mechanical ventilation in pediatrics: outcome and predictive factors

Introduction. spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) in weaning from pediatric invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) is an endorsed practice, its positivity is based on clinical parameters; however, its results could be better documented. Objective. To describe the results of the SBT in the IMV weaning process. Population and methods. Retrospective analysis. Patients with ≥48 h in IMV from March 1, 2022 to January 31, 2024. Results. A total of493 SBT were analyzed in 304 patients; 71% (348) were positive, and 87% (302) resulted in successful extubations. The causes of negative SBT were increased work of breathing (70%), respiratory rate (57%), and heart rate (27%). In univariate analysis, respiratory distress as the reason for admission, peak inspiratory pressure before SBT and T-tube use, were predictors of negative SBT. In multivariate analysis, this association persisted for admission for respiratory cause, the higher programmed respiratory rate in IMV, as the T-tube modality. Those with negative SBT stayed more days in IMV (9 7-12 vs. 7 4-10) and in PICU (11 9-15 vs. 9 7-12). Conclusion. Positive SBT predicted successful extubation in a high percentage of cases. Respiratory distress on admission, higher programmed respiratory rate, and a higher proportion of T-tube mode were negative predictors of the test. Negative SBT was associated with more extended stays in IMV and PICU.