Accessory Muscle Use in COPD - Physical Exam In the this patient with COPD, we see the use of accessory muscles as an adaptation to help expel air during the expiratory phase. There is increased exhalation time and increased jugular swelling during expiration resulting from increased intrathoracic pressure. Dr. Bruno Farnetano @bruno.farnetano #Accessory #COPD #breathing #respiratory #pulmonary #clinical #video #PhysicalExam