Imagine that you are an Immortal, Omniscient, Omnipotent spiritual being. You have existed through all eternity, and cannot do otherwise. You are Eternally responsible for the existence of everything you can perceive in your Universe. Your every thought and whim materialize instantly, and disappear as soon as you stop. You know the outcome of every action you take before you make a move. Imagine how boring it might become? What price would you pay to be amused by someone other than yourself? What would you be willing to do to solve the problem of perpetual boredom? For an Immortal Being, mortality might be a coveted and convenient relief from eternal loneliness: no sensation, no surprises, no fun. What if a "Mortality Mechanic" could make your existence more exciting and less boring? Are you interested? After billions of years of testing and experimentation solutions to Immortality have been codified in the Mortality Mechanic's Manual. You are the living proof that their job is done.

Essential Surgery is part of a nine volume series for Disease Control Priorities which focuses on health interventions intended to reduce morbidity and mortality. The Essential Surgery volume focuses on four key aspects including global financial responsibility, emergency procedures, essential services organization and cost analysis.

One of the key tools in effectively managing critical illness is the use of mechanical ventilator support. This essential text helps you navigate this rapidly evolving technology and understand the latest research and treatment modalities. A deeper understanding of the effects of mechanical ventilation will enable you to optimize patient outcomes while reducing the risk of trauma to the lungs and other organ systems. A physiologically-based approach helps you better understand the impact of mechanical ventilation on cytokine levels, lung physiology, and other organ systems. The latest guidelines and protocols help you minimize trauma to the lungs and reduce patient length of stay. Expert contributors provide the latest knowledge on all aspects of mechanical ventilation, from basic principles and invasive and non-invasive techniques to patient monitoring and controlling costs in the ICU. Comprehensive coverage of advanced biological therapies helps you master cutting-edge techniques involving surfactant therapy, nitric oxide therapy, and cytokine modulators. Detailed discussions of both neonatal and pediatric ventilator support helps you better meet the unique needs of younger patients.