[Effective correction of lung hyperinflation in pneumonia using positive end-expiratory pressure]

Study of PEEP effects on breathing biomechanics in patients with pneumonia.

In 37 patients with pneumonia breathing biomechanics was studied using Masterlab (Jaeger). PEEP (3-10 cm H2O) was employed during 20 min.

Sputum expectoration, expiration and inspiration were improved, lung hyperventilation observed in pneumonia reduced after PEEP.

There is early expiration obstruction of the airways in pneumonia. PEEP removes this obstruction through control of lung hyperinflation. Thus, PEEP can be applied in the treatment of pneumonia.