Method and device for the adaptive regulation of a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP)

Abstract

A method controls an expiratory gas flow at a user interface (16) of a ventilator (1) wherein the user interface (16) has an exhalation valve (11), which provides a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). The method includes the following steps during a phase of exhalation: changing the positive end-expiratory pressure from a basic PEEP value (31) with the exhalation valve (11); returning the positive end-expiratory pressure to the basic PEEP value (31) with the exhalation valve (11); and determining an exhalation parameter. The method permits an adaptive change in the expiratory flow duringthe exhalation. Air trapping can be avoided, and it is possible to respond to changed exhalation parameters within one and the same phase of exhalation.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to a method for controlling the flow of expiratory air. Background technique [0002] Use of respiratory equipment to assist the patient's breathing. In this case, the breathing apparatus introduces breathing air into the patient's lungs and also removes the air from the lungs, for example during forced respiration. In order not to damage the patient's lungs, certain parameters of the lungs and the tube system used must be known to the breathing apparatus with which the breathing air is conveyed from the apparatus to the patient and, if necessary, back. In this case, the aerodynamic resistance on the facility side, the compliance of the facility, the compliance of the lungs and the airway resistance are taken into account, if applicable. [0003] In order to avoid collapse of the lungs during the exhalation phase, the positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is adjusted by means of an exhalation valve, which defines the m...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Air trapping cannot be avoided with this method either, since the remaining volume in the lungs cannot be monitored during exhalation

[0007] In known installations, the expiratory flow cannot usually be influenced during the exhalation phase because the exhalation valve and sensor are separated from the patient by the long airway

Changes in airflow are therefore only delayed or attenuated through the airway so that measurements of expiratory parameters cannot be achieved simultaneously with changes in PEEP

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