An exhalation valve arrangement (22) for a ventilation apparatus for artificial ventilation of patients is flow-capable in an exhalation flow direction (E) and encompasses:



an upstream respiratory gas conduit (54) that extends along a first conduit path (K1) and is connected or connectable to a portion, coming from the patient, of the exhalation line;
a downstream respiratory gas conduit (58) that extends along a second conduit path (K2) and is connected or connectable to a respiratory gas sink (U);
a valve subassembly (63) which comprises a valve body (64) and a valve seat (66) and which is provided between the upstream and the downstream respiratory gas conduit (54, 58) in such a way that, in the context of a predetermined first respiratory gas overpressure in the upstream respiratory gas conduit (54) relative to the downstream respiratory gas conduit (58), it permits an expiratory respiratory gas flow from the upstream respiratory gas conduit (54) into the downstream respiratory gas conduit (58); and in the context of a predetermined second respiratory gas overpressure in the downstream respiratory gas conduit (58) relative to the upstream respiratory gas conduit (54), it blocks a gas flow from the downstream respiratory gas conduit (58) into the upstream respiratory gas conduit (54).




Provision is made according to the present invention that the exhalation valve arrangement (22) comprises a bypass chamber (74) which communicates in terms of flow mechanics with the upstream respiratory gas conduit (54) and which extends, proceeding from the upstream respiratory gas conduit (54), into the region of the downstream respiratory gas conduit (58) and is embodied there for attachment of a gas pressure sensor (80).