RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 The oesophageal balloon for respiratory monitoring in ventilated patients: updated clinical review and practical aspects JF European Respiratory Review JO EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW FD European Respiratory Society SP 220186 DO 10.1183/16000617.0186-2022 VO 32 IS 168 A1 Jonkman, Annemijn H. A1 Telias, Irene A1 Spinelli, Elena A1 Akoumianaki, Evangelia A1 Piquilloud, Lise YR 2023 UL http://err.ersjournals.com/content/32/168/220186.abstract AB There is a well-recognised importance for personalising mechanical ventilation settings to protect the lungs and the diaphragm for each individual patient. Measurement of oesophageal pressure (Poes) as an estimate of pleural pressure allows assessment of partitioned respiratory mechanics and quantification of lung stress, which helps our understanding of the patient's respiratory physiology and could guide individualisation of ventilator settings. Oesophageal manometry also allows breathing effort quantification, which could contribute to improving settings during assisted ventilation and mechanical ventilation weaning. In parallel with technological improvements, Poes monitoring is now available for daily clinical practice. This review provides a fundamental understanding of the relevant physiological concepts that can be assessed using Poes measurements, both during spontaneous breathing and mechanical ventilation. We also present a practical approach for implementing oesophageal manometry at the bedside. While more clinical data are awaited to confirm the benefits of Poes-guided mechanical ventilation and to determine optimal targets under different conditions, we discuss potential practical approaches, including positive end-expiratory pressure setting in controlled ventilation and assessment of inspiratory effort during assisted modes.Measuring partitioned respiratory mechanics and quantifying lung stress and breathing effort using oesophageal manometry improves our understanding of the patient's unique respiratory physiology and allows personalisation of mechanical ventilation. https://bit.ly/41meCxw