AVAPS Explained: Indications, Settings, Physiology & Clinical Applications Average Volume-Assured Pressure Support (AVAPS) is an advanced mode of noninvasive ventilation that combines pressure support ventilation with a target tidal volume. By automatically adjusting inspiratory pressure support to achieve a desired tidal volume, AVAPS can help provide more consistent ventilation in patients with acute and chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure. In this episode, we review the physiology behind AVAPS, discuss how it differs from traditional BPAP, and explore practical approaches to selecting settings, monitoring response to therapy, and troubleshooting common challenges. We also discuss clinical applications in COPD exacerbations, obesity hypoventilation syndrome, neuromuscular disease, and other causes of ventilatory failure. AVAPS is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool for patients who require noninvasive ventilation while maintaining consistent tidal volume delivery. Topics Covered: • What is AVAPS? • How AVAPS works • AVAPS versus BPAP • Pressure-targeted versus volume-assured ventilation • Target tidal volume selection • IPAP minimum and maximum settings • EPAP settings • Backup respiratory rates • FiO₂ adjustments • Monitoring patient response • COPD exacerbations • Hypercapnic respiratory failure • Obesity hypoventilation syndrome • Neuromuscular disease • Troubleshooting AVAPS • Advantages and limitations • Clinical pearls and pitfalls 📺 Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ejs33Wae_Fw 📚 Download the full study guide + access our complete emergency critical care curriculum: https://www.patreon.com/c/WhiteBoardMedicine Our Patreon includes: • 📄 Study guides for every video • 📋 One Pagers • 🎓 Mini-courses (ventilation, shock, RRT & more) • ❓ Practice questions • 🚫 Ad-free videos • 🧠 A structured ICU curriculum 🌐 WhiteBoard Medicine Website: https://whiteboardmedicine.com Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Clinical decisions should always be based on individual patient circumstances, local protocols, and consultation with appropriate healthcare professionals.

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