Investigation of Pressure Support Ventilation and Pressure Control Ventilation by Using a Test Lung

Abstract

We investigated the changes in tidal volume, maximum inspiratory flow, and inspiratory pressure plateau in response to the settings of the ventilator regarding pressure support ventilation (PSV) and pressure control ventilation (PCV) in six commercially available ventilators by using a test lung. Tidal volume (V_T), inspiratory pressure plateau, and maximum inspiratory flow (MIF) were measured at various inspiratory pressure settings. Inspiratory pressure, V_T, MIF and pressure curve were different between six ventilators, probably due to the different controlling mechanisms and their own flow limitations. Dependent on the increase in inspiratory effort, V_T and MIF did not increased in response to the increase in inspiratory effort. These findings suggest that we have to monitor the respiratory mechanics in order to maintain the adequate ventilation during PSV and PCV settings in different ventilators.