Spontaneous positive end-expiratory pressure (sPEEP).

Spontaneous positive end-expiratory pressure (sPEEP) is a simple, low-cost method of providing low to moderate levels of PEEP as an alternative to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), whether used alone or with continuous positive pressure ventilation (CPPV) in intermittent mandatory ventilation (IMV). The therapeutic effects of sPEEP therapy are demonstrated in 7 adult respiratory distress syndrome patients. All patients, initially hypoxemic on a high F1O2, had an acceptable PaO2 (with F1O2 less than or equal to 0.4) within 12 hours of initiation of sPEEP therapy. sPEEP, unlike CPAP and CPPV, does not maintain a continuous positive intrathoracic pressure during inspiration. Therefore, the patient probably does not receive as great a negative effect on venous return and cardiac output. By use of the sPEEP apparatus, the patient receives the therapeutic effect of PEEP.