Tidal volume (VT or TV)

Tidal volume is the **volume of air inspired or expired with each passive breath** during normal, quiet breathing. In healthy adults at rest, it averages about 500 mL per inspiration for males and slightly less for females[1][3][6][7]. It is a key physiological parameter used to assess pulmonary function and guide settings in mechanical ventilation. Tidal volume plays a critical role in ensuring adequate gas exchange while minimizing the risk of barotrauma or volutrauma to the lungs. In clinical practice, especially during mechanical ventilation, careful adjustment of tidal volume is essential to prevent complications such as ventilator-induced lung injury; lower tidal volumes are recommended for patients with ARDS[1][3]. Tidal volume is not a molecule, receptor, enzyme, transporter, or other therapeutic target but rather a **physiological measurement** relevant to respiratory medicine.

Other names

VTTV