Effect of prolongation of expiratory time on dynamic hyperinflation in mechanically ventilated patients with severe asthma.

Objective: To assess the effect of a decrease in respiratory rate on dynamic hyperinflation, as determined by changes in plateau airway pressure, in patients with status asthmaticus whose baseline minute ventilation approximated 10 L/min.

Design: Observational descriptive study.

Setting: Medical intensive care unit.