A proximal positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) system was constructed by the simple addition of a venturi T-piece proximal to the exhalation limb of a breathing circuit. The level of PEEP or CPAP was determined by the amount of flow powering the venturi. This system can provide positive pressure in excess of 40 cm H2O without the need for check...

The flow-resistive characteristics of a variety of commercially available expiratory positive-pressure valve systems used to provide continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and positive end-expiratory pressure were evaluated. One flow-resistor and seven threshold-resistor expiratory pressure valve systems were set at 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 cm H2O of expiratory pressure, and sinusoidal exhaled...

RATIONALE During pressure-support ventilation, the ventilator cycles into expiration when inspiratory flow decreases to a given percentage of peak inspiratory flow ("expiratory trigger"). In obstructive disease, the slower rise and decrease of inspiratory flow entails delayed cycling, an increase in intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure, and nontriggering breaths. OBJECTIVES We hypothesi...