[A simple helium-dilution method for the determination of functional residual capacity in artificially ventilated patients (author's transl)].

A convenient modification of the classical closed circuit helium dilution technique was developped to determine functional residual capacity, especially in intubated and artificial ventilated patients. The determination of the still inflatable lung volume and its variability in the course of pulmonary insufficiency or after a change in the adjustment of the respirator (PEEP a.o.), was reproducible better than +/- 10%. This method can be performed in a short time, without risk for the patient and with instruments locally independent of the ICU, surgery or recovery room.