NHLBI ARDS Network

The FACTT study was a prospective, randomized, multi-center trial evaluating the use of a pulmonary artery catheter versus a less invasive alternative, the central venous catheter, for the management of patients with acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It was combined with a second study contrasting a conservative and a liberal fluid management strategy in patients with ALI or ARDS.

The late phase of ARDS is often characterized by excessive fibroproliferation leading to gas exchange and compliance abnormalities. The objective of the LaSRS study was to determine if the administration of corticosteroids, in the form of methylprednisolone sodium succinate, in severe late-phase ARDS, would have a positive effect on this fibroproliferation, thereby reducing mortality and morbidity.

The ALVEOLI study was a prospective, randomized, controlled multi-center trial. The objective was to compare clinical outcomes of patients with acute lung injury (ALI)and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) treated with a higher end-expiratory lung volume/lower FiO2 versus a lower end-expiratory lung volume/higher FiO2 ventilation strategy.

The LARMA study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled multi-center 2 x 2 factorial study where each patient was randomized between Lisofylline and Placebo. It was designed to test whether the administration of lisofylline early after the onset of ALI or ARDS would reduce mortality and morbidity.

The first clinical trial completed by the Network was a randomized, controlled trial of Ketoconazole versus placebo in patients with acute lung injury and ARDS.

The ARMA study was a randomized, controlled multi-center 2 x 2 factorial study consisting of a drug treatment (Ketoconazole vs. placebo) and a ventilation strategy (6ml/kg tidal volume vs. 12ml/kg tidal volume).