What does "Ventilator-dependent respiratory failure" mean in a report or doctor's letter? In our medical dictionary, you will find a patient-friendly explanation of the meaning of this medical term.
"Ventilator-dependent respiratory failure" is a medical condition where a person's lungs can't work properly on their own. This means they can't get enough oxygen into their body or remove enough carbon dioxide. To help them breathe, they need a machine called a ventilator. This machine pushes air into their lungs, helping them to breathe.
Editorial responsibility: BaluMed.

BaluMed makes medicine understandable! Our extensive medical report explanation 'translates' complex medical terms from MRI findings and discharge summaries into easily understandable language. With a combination of artificial intelligence and medical expertise, we offer quickly available and reliable information.