Let automated weaning systems rise to the Summit. Response to the letter of Maldonado et al.

Excerpt

The letter from Maldonado and colleagues [1] referring to our recently published review on automated systems [2] raise an interesting issue related to the theoretical problems associated with SmartCare use at high altitude. The SmartCare system was developed for application in patients at “usual” altitude [3]. Mexico (2,240 m above sea level), is the largest city at high altitude. Other large cities at high altitude exist (La Paz 3,650 m, Quito 2,800 m, Bogotá 2,600 m, Johannesburg 1,750 m, Nairobi 1,660 m, Denver 1,609 m, Guatemala City 1,530 m) account for a total population (including suburbs) of approximately 50 million individuals. Consequently, there are several individuals to whom the theoretical concerns that you raise may apply. …