William J. Fulkerson Jr.

Currently, I am involved with the NHLBI ARDS Network in research involving acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The ARDS Network, composed of Duke and nine other centers, continues the study of mechanical ventilation strategies in patients with severe acute lung injury. Patients are randomized to usual care versus modes of ventilation designed to avoid over distension of the lung. Planning is underway for an additional NHLBI-sponsored randomized trial to examine the role of pulmonary artery catheterization in critically ill patients. Additionally I am involved in clinical trials looking at patients with sepsis, severe respiratory failure, and other common problems in an intensive care unit setting. These investigations concern decision-making, outcome prediction, and cost-effectiveness of care in the intensive care unit.

Key Words include:

1. ARDS
2. Bronchoscopy
3. Critical Care
4. Outcome Predictions
5. Sepsis