Fig. 1.
Accurate predicative algorithms to identify surgical populations at high risk for acute respiratory distress syndrome can inform the design of high-yield clinical trials. Examples of promising therapeutic approaches that are currently under investigation include use of allogeneic human mesenchymal stem cells,5 activation of regulatory T-cells,3 pharmacologic stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factor 1A,4 modulation of adenosine metabolism,6 and deployment of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.12 The surgical lung injury prediction model-2 score was derived from a high-risk patient population from multiple centers and is associated with the development of postoperative acute respiratory distress syndrome.8 Knowledge of acute respiratory distress syndrome risk factors permits design of efficient clinical trials to test novel therapies and hopefully improve patient outcomes.