Inspiratory and expiratory volumes were measured in 51 preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), when comparing two ventilator rates, 60 and 120 breaths/min. Gas trapping was not demonstrated at rates of 60, but in 11 infants at 120 breaths/min and this was more common in the paralysed infants and those more mature than 31 weeks gestational age (P less than 0.05). The median change in functional residual capacity resulting from gas trapping was 3.8 ml/kg. We conclude rates of 120 breaths/min can be used in the majority of non-paralysed infants without gas trapping but should be avoided in paralysed infants more mature than 31 weeks.