Application and Technical Principles of Catheter High-Frequency Jet Ventilation

HIGHLIGHTS: Catheter methods of high-frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) have proven to be very effective artificial lung ventilation (ALV) methods in technical experimental conditions as well as in clinical applications. What are the main findings? Explanation of potentially optimal techniques for catheter high-frequency jet ventilation (C-HFJV) applications. Assessment and clarification of application methodologies of C-HFJV ventilation, its biophysical principles of function, and solutions to prevent volutrauma and barotrauma. What is the implication of the main finding? The positive effects of C-HFJV, even with complications, such as bacterial or viral pneumonia, including COVID-19. The method of double-lumen catheter ventilation significantly contributes to clinical practice. ABSTRACT: The aim of this publication is to analyze the topic of high-frequency jet ventilation (HFJV), namely catheter HFJV (C-HFJV), from a mathematical–physical as well as a clinical point of view. There are known issues with applying anesthesia and artificial lung ventilation (ALV) during surgical procedures in the upper airways, e.g., during bronchoscopy or tracheostomy. The principles, advantages, and disadvantages of HFJV are discussed in context with basic physical principles to clarify the proper use of this method. The basic technical principles of catheter construction, as well as its functional properties from a biophysical point of view, are introduced. Also, the placement of the catheter in the airways, the set-up of the HFJV ventilator, and the indications as well as the risks and contraindications of the use of C-HFJV are analyzed. This leads to the explanation of potentially optimal techniques for C-HFJV applications. In this article, we present the positive effects of C-HFJV even with complications such as bacterial or viral pneumonia, including COVID-19. In conclusion, we offer recommendations for clinical practice obtained from a literature review and from our rich clinical experience.