Evaluation of the end-expiratory pressure by multiple linear regression and Fourier analysis in humans.

This study was designed to compare the end-expiratory pressure (EEP) during mechanical ventilation (MV) measured dynamically (EEPdyn), by multiple linear regression (MLR) of the airway pressure (Pao) vs volume (V) and flow (V') and after Fourier analysis (FA) of the Pao and V'. Pao and V' were recorded from 32 ICU patients (II without respiratory disease, 10 COPD, II ARDS) under MV, at three levels of PEEPe (0, 5 and 10 hPa). Volume was calculated by numerical integration of V'.