Several recent reports have highlighted the utility of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation to preserve muscle mass and strength in ICU patients. Specifically, Serafim Nanas and colleagues report a significant reduction in the odds of ICU-acquired weakness with its use. Whether these findings are relevant to all patients with acute respiratory failure remains to be seen. As critical care studies attempt to study the outcome of physical recovery, significant additional data need to be provided in order for the results to be reported in the appropriate context. Future studies need to be performed in a setting where secondary injuries like sedation and immobilization are quantified so any benefit can be weighed against other interventions available.
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