[Effects of High-frequency Jet Ventilation on Respiratory Failure after Total Arch Replacement Due to Acute Aortic Dissection with Morbid Obesity;Report of a Case].

A 55-year-old morbidly obese woman [body mass index (BMI) 51.2] developed acute type A aortic dissection, and she also presented with significant hypoxemia and hypercapnia. She underwent a successful emergency total arch replacement, but severe hypoxemia persisted and Pao2/Fio2 lowered to 71.9 mmHg. We therefore applied high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV), which soon improved the hypoxemia without hemodynamic compromise. HFJV was discontinued three days later, when her Pao2/Fio2 improved to 170.0 mmHg. Weaning from the respirator was initiated on postoperative day 13. The patient was extubated on postoperative day 19 and was discharged on postoperative day 74 free from disabilities. HFJV may be effective for severe hypoxemia after cardiovascular surgery.