A simplified method for separate measurements of lung and chest wall mechanics in ventilator‐treated patients

Abstract

Y-piece pressures are not representative of intratracheal pressures, which can be measured by inserting a fluid-filled pressure line through the tube. Esophageal pressure is easily recorded with a fluid-filled Salem double-lumen catheter. Large changes in lung compliance may pass unnoticed when only total compliance is monitored. Monitoring of lung compliance may offer an improved basis for decisions about ventilator settings.