Method for determining a parameter related to spontaneous breathing efforts by a subject, and breathing-assist apparatus operating in accordance with the method

摘要

In a method and apparatus for determining at least one parameter related to a patient's spontaneous attempts at inspiration and/or the patient's respiratory effort in attempts at spontaneous inspiration, a pressure gradient is determined in relation to a known apparatus pressure and time, the pressure gradient being generated by the patient at inspiration, a residual positive pressure in the patient's lungs is determined and an output signal is generated. The output signal can represent determined parameters as well as other related calculated results. The pressure gradient can be extrapolated against residual positive pressure, and both a delay for respiratory assistance and true inspiratory effort can be determined.