Comparison of methods of measurement of compliance of the respiratory system in children.

Compliance of the respiratory system (Crs) was compared using 2 previously described methods, namely, the passive expiratory flow and multiple occlusion techniques. These 2 methods have the advantage of being totally noninvasive, but both have limitations precluding their use in some circumstances. The results of this study of 10 intubated patients, who varied widely in age (premature newborn to adolescence) and diseases, showed no significant difference between the Crs obtained by the 2 methods. The Crs measurements can therefore be used interchangeably, the choice of technique being dependent on the subjects' clinical state.