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Figure 9-7. Interpreting the P/V curve
1 Deflation limb
2 Inflation limb
3 Upper inflection point of inflation limb (UIP)
4 Difference in volume between two curves (dv)
5 Lower inflection point of inflation limb (LIP)
6 Linear compliance (Clin)
The P/V Tool maneuver generates two curves: 1) the inflation
P/V curve (in green), and 2) the deflation P/V curve (in yellow
and usually shifted to the left). Obtain the information from
the curve as listed above (see legend number 3 to 6).
In addition, you can obtain several pieces of information from
the deflation limb, such as the PEEP level required to avoid
alveoli collapse after a special maneuver to open alveoli
(recruitment maneuver). For comprehensive physiological
explanations, refer to recent publications
1
.
1. Maggiore SM, Richard JC, Brochard L. What has been learnt from P/V
curves in patients with acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syn-
drome. Eur Respir J Suppl. 2003;42:22s-6s.
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