Objective: To assess the influence of nebulization with bronchodilators carried by the heliox coupled to PEP in the distribution of compartimental lung volumes in asmathic adults and to correlate with pulmonary function data. Methods: A controlled randomized trial involving 27 patients divided into four groups: heliox + PEP, oxygen + PEP, heliox and oxygen. After the initial evaluation, it was placing 89 reflective markers attached to the surface of the trunk and images acquired by optoelectronic plethysmography (OEP) of six cameras. Three slow vital capacity maneuvers and quiet breathing regarded as phase control. After the control phase, all patients underwent nebulization with a distribution noninvasive system, semi-closed using 10 drops of Fenoterol Bromide and 20 drops of Ipratropium.

Inclusion Criteria:

• The study included individuals diagnosed with moderate to severe asthma with forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) <60% or FEV1 <60% - 80% predicted;
• showing reversibility of bronchial obstruction after administration of bronchodilators at least 10% in FEV1.

Exclusion Criteria:

• unable to understand or perform the spirometric maneuver;
• with a history of smoking;
• pulmonary comorbidities as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
• bronchiectasis and tuberculosis sequel;
• hemodynamic instability defined as heart rate (HR) greater than 150 bpm or systolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg or greater than 150mmHg;
• pregnancy and any contraindication to the use of PEEP;
• such as increased work of breathing (acute asthma);
• active hemoptysis;
• acute sinusitis;
• pneumothorax;
• untreated; surgery or facial trauma;
• oral or injury;
• epistaxis;
• nausea and esophageal surgery.