Nearly 20% of all patients admitted to an intensive-care unit are obese. Their excess weight
puts them at risk for several problems and complications during their intensive-care unit stay.
Especially, pulmonary problems need particular attention, and comprehensive knowledge of
the specific pathophysiologic changes of the respiratory system is important. Lung protective
ventilation strategies, supplemented by lung-recruiting manoeuvres, may be feasible in
critically ill obese patients with lung injury. Careful positioning of the obese is essential to …