One in Ten German Hospital Patients Who Use Artificial Respiration Dies: Study

A recent study has brought to light alarming statistics regarding hospital mortality rates in Germany. One in ten individuals who are put on artificial respiration dies in hospitals, according to the research led by intensive care physician Christian Karagiannidis from the Cologne-Merheim Lung Clinic. The study analyzed data from over a million adults who were ventilated in nearly 1,400 German clinics between 2019 and 2022, with more than 43 percent of those ventilated dying in hospital.

The most common reasons for ventilation via tube or mask are heart disease, pneumonia, lung diseases, and strokes. The study also found that in the age group over 80 years, more than 1,000 people per 100,000 inhabitants were ventilated each year, with a mortality rate of 59 percent. Comparatively, in England there are about 200 ventilated patients per 100,000 inhabitants, suggesting that Germany has a higher tendency for a lot of ventilation therapy at the end of life and in very old patients.

While the study could not provide a definitive answer as to why there is a higher rate of ventilation in Germany, it is suggested that factors such as a high number of people with chronic diseases and significant tobacco consumption could play a role. Additionally, it is noted that ventilating patients can bring in revenue for hospitals in Germany potentially leading to economic factors influencing the decision to ventilate patients.

Dr. Windisch emphasized the need for social discourse on this issue particularly concerning hospital reforms. The study serves as a call to action to address the implications of high rates of ventilation therapy in Germany, particularly among older patients and at end-of-life situations.

In conclusion, this study highlights the urgent need for healthcare providers to closely monitor their use of artificial respiration therapy and ensure that they are making decisions based on patient well-being rather than financial gain.