A diagnostic software tool for determination of complexity in respiratory pattern parameters.

The development and validation of a software that is user friendly and flexible in determining approximate entropy and reflecting complexity in respiratory pattern parameters are presented. The report includes the theory and computational methods for approximate entropy as well as the system description and software architecture. Results for a simulated periodic and regular respiratory pattern as well as for an irregular and complex breathing pattern obtained from a patient receiving mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit are provided. By providing easy and rapid determination of the approximate entropy, the software enables health care professionals to understand how specific mechanical ventilation settings influence the respiratory pattern for patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit and ultimately identify the reversibility of respiratory diseases and weaning and liberation from mechanical ventilation.