Use of basis functions within a non-linear autoregressive model of pulmonary mechanics

The model successfully described all parts of the airway pressure curve for 25 data sets. Coefficients that captured airway resistance effects enabled end-inspiratory and expiratory relaxation to be accurately described. Basis function coefficients were also able to describe an elastance curve across different PEEP levels without refitting, providing a more useful patient-specific model. The model thus has potential to allow clinicians to predict the effects of changes in ventilator PEEP levels on airway pressure, and thus determine optimal patient specific PEEP with less need for clinical input or testing.