Evaluation of the FreeO2 System for Oxygen Weaning After Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure

Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) is a common condition associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and healthcare resource utilization. Although advances in oxygen therapy, particularly high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO), have improved the management of AHRF, the transition from HFNO to conventional low-flow oxygen therapy remains an important and understudied phase of patient care.

During oxygen weaning, oxygen flow is usually adjusted manually by healthcare professionals according to a target oxygen saturation (SpO₂). Because oxygen saturation is often assessed intermittently outside continuously monitored settings, patients may experience episodes of hypoxemia or hyperoxia before oxygen flow is adjusted.

FreeO2 is an automated oxygen titration system that continuously adjusts oxygen flow according to the patient's SpO₂. Its safety and effectiveness have been demonstrated in several clinical settings, but its use during oxygen weaning after HFNO has not been specifically evaluated.

The objective of this study is to assess whether the use of the FreeO2 system during oxygen weaning after HFNO in patients recovering from acute hypoxemic respiratory failure improves oxygen saturation control and facilitates the weaning process compared with standard oxygen therapy.