Table 2

Outcome comparison between the study groups, according to admission diagnosis

Outcomes
Protocol-directed weaning group (cases)
Physician-directed weaning group (controls)
P

Mechanical ventilation duration (days)
     Medicine
15.3 ± 13
23 ± 22.6
0.02
     Surgery
19.1 ± 15.2
17.4 ± 13.7
0.72
     Neurosurgery
18.9 ± 12.8
26.3 ± 23.1
0.29
     COPD
14.1 ± 14.6
24.9 ± 24
0.33
     Combined
16.6 ± 13
22.5 ± 21
0.02
ICU length of stay (days)
     Medicine
20.1 ± 13.7
27.7 ± 23
0.02
     Surgery
25 ± 17
23.3 ± 15.4
0.72
     Neurosurgery
23 ± 13
34 ± 24
0.09
     COPD
20.4 ± 14.6
28.5 ± 25
0.47
     Combined
21.6 ± 14.3
27.6 ± 21.7
0.02

Values are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. COPD, chronic pulmonary obstructive disease; ICU, intensive care unit.

Tonnelier et al. Critical Care 2005 9:R83   doi:10.1186/cc3030