Anaesthesia Fundamentals | Physiology | Mechanics of Ventilation and the Effect of IPPV on the Lungs

Mechanics of Ventilation and the Effect of IPPV on the Lungs
Session overview
Description
This session continues to look at respiratory mechanics, including lung compliance, the role of surfactant and the factors that determine whether airflow is laminar or turbulent. Respiratory function tests are also explained

Learning objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the concept of compliance
• Explain Laplace's law and understand the role of surfactant
• Recognise the factors affecting airflow through the lung
• Interpret the results of lung function tests in obstructive and restrictive disease

Prerequisites
Before commencing this session you should complete:

• Gaseous Exchange: Oxygen (001-0660)
• Gaseous Exchange: Hypoxia and Hyper- and Hypo-Capnia (001-0661)
• Function of Haemoglobin in Oxygen Carriage (001-0663)
• Pulmonary Ventilation: Volumes, Flows, Dead Space & Preoxygenation (001-0665)

The normal work of breathing is spent on overcoming airway resistance and the elasticity of the chest wall and lungs.

Knowledge of the interaction of these components is essential, because:

• It explains the effects of anaesthesia on the lungs during spontaneous and positive pressure ventilation
• It underpins the management of respiratory failure within critical care