Gusztav Belteki

Abstract Objectives We investigated the inflating pressures (Pinfl, the difference between peak inspiratory pressure and positive end-expiratory pressure) in infants receiving volume targeted ventilation. Methods Data were collected and analysed from 195 infants. Median Pinfl was determined before each blood gas (n = 3425). Ventilator parameters and blood gases were compared between periods when Pinfl was <5 mbar and periods when it was higher.

A neonate presented with early encephalopathy deteriorated and was intubated and ventilated. Ventilator data were monitored and recorded at 100?Hz for 24?hours. The infant had many sudden deep inspirations during this time which were initially thought to be seizures. These were characterised by short, rapid, large inspirations when the airway pressure was reduced well below the positive end expiratory pressure level.