Inflation hold is designed to maintain air in the lungs at the end of inspiration, before exhalation valve opens. The inspired volume is delivered , but the expiratory valve remains closed. Air stays in the patient's lungs for a brief period (pause time). The pressure reading on the manometer peaks during inspiration_and then levels to a plateau (plateau pressure). The technique of breath holding sometimes is referred to as inspiratory pause, end-inspiratory pause, inspiratory hold, or inflation hold.

 

The plateau pressure is used to calculate static compliance. The inspiratory pause occasionally is used to help increase peripheral distribution of gas and improve oxygenation. Inflation hold increases the inspiratory time and usually reduces the expiratory time.