COVID-19 related ARDS patients admitted to the ICU in March 2021 requiring mechanical ventilation were enrolled. Patients were monitored by an esophageal catheter and a 32-electrode EIT device. Within 48 hours after the start of mechanical ventilation, different levels of PEEP were applied based upon PEEP/ Fraction of inspired oxygen tables, positive end-expiratory transpulmonary (PL)/ FiO2 table, and EIT. Respiratory mechanics variables were recorded.
