Status asthmaticus. Management of status asthmaticus complicated by surgical emphysema--avoidance of intermittent positive pressure ventilation.

The management of a case of status asthmaticus complicated by surgical emphysema is described. In view of voice changes, intubation was necessary but intermittent positive pressure ventilation was considered unwise, because of the surgical emphysema. A means of maintaining adequate sedation in an intubated patient whilst allowing spontaneous respiration is outlined.