Which of the following is NOT a complication associated with mechanical ventilation?

Excessive sleepiness is not typically associated with mechanical ventilation as a direct complication. Instead, it is often a result of the underlying condition requiring mechanical ventilation, such as sedative medications used during the procedure, or the illness itself rather than a direct consequence of the ventilatory support.

Mechanical ventilation can lead to several complications, including swallowing disorders, upper airway trauma, and barotrauma. Swallowing disorders can occur because of the disruption in normal swallowing mechanics due to intubation or prolonged ventilation. Upper airway trauma may result from the placement of an endotracheal tube, which can cause injury to soft tissues in the airway. Barotrauma is a condition resulting from excessive pressure in the lungs that can lead to alveolar rupture, which is particularly concerning in patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

Thus, excessive sleepiness stands apart as it pertains more to sedative effects or pre-existing conditions rather than a direct complication of the mechanical ventilation process itself.