CONTINUOUS SPIROMETRY - AN AID TO MONITORING VENTILATION DURING OPERATION

We present six case-reports of patients who experienced-inadequate ven tilation as a result of endobronchial or oesophageal intubation, or ob struction to the tracheal tube or airway and were monitored with on-li ne spirometry. The continuously displayed pressure-volume or flow-volu me loops may be compared, with previously recorded baseline loops. The changing configuration of the curves offers additional and instantane ous information about the cause of increased inspiratory airway pressu re, decreased compliance or increased airway resistance. Monitoring fl ow-volume and pressure-volume loops in conjunction with currently avai lable techniques provides a comprehensive method of monitoring ventila tion.