What is the main concern when using high tidal volumes in mechanical ventilation?

Using high tidal volumes in mechanical ventilation primarily raises the concern of barotrauma or volutrauma to the lungs. When tidal volumes are increased beyond the lungs' optimal capacity, it can result in overdistension of the alveoli. This overdistension can cause alveolar rupture or damage to the lung tissue, which is known as barotrauma. Additionally, volutrauma occurs when excessive volume stretches the lung beyond its physiological capacity, leading to injury from excessive pressure and volume fluctuations.

Maintaining adequate lung mechanics is crucial in mechanical ventilation to minimize the risk of lung injury. Strategies such as using lower tidal volumes can help prevent these complications and maintain sufficient oxygenation and ventilation without causing harm to the lung parenchyma.

The other options, while they may be considerations in ventilatory settings, are not the primary concern associated with high tidal volumes. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, may arise from other factors related to mechanical ventilation but is not directly linked to excessive tidal volumes. Pneumothorax can occur from a variety of causes, including mechanical ventilation, but it is not the most immediate concern associated with high tidal volumes. Metabolic alkalosis typically results from other underlying factors, such as overventilation leading to excessive carbon