[Examples of the clinical use of different methods of high frequency ventilation]

Four basic principles of high frequency ventilation (HFV) are shortly described and papers cited which review the technical, experimental, and clinical experiences in the GDR. Using examples of review articles and original papers, the benefits of the methods of HFV during and after surgical procedures, in intensive care and in weaning from artificial ventilation are exposed. The possible increase of the oxygenation in patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency following secretolysis by intrapulmonary percussion is discussed. Dangers and complications using HFV are assessed.