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Emergent behavior of regional heterogeneity in the lung and its effects on respiratory impedance
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Emergent behavior of regional heterogeneity in the lung and its effects on respiratory impedance

David W Kaczka, Kenneth R Lutchen and Zoltán Hantos
Journal of applied physiology (1985), Vol.110(5), pp.1473-1481
Emergent Behavior in Lung Structure and Function
05/2011
DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01287.2010
PMCID: PMC3098668
PMID: 21292840
url
https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.01287.2010View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

The ability to maintain adequate gas exchange depends on the relatively homogeneous distribution of inhaled gas throughout the lung. Structural alterations associated with many respiratory diseases may significantly depress this function during tidal breathing. These alterations frequently occur in a heterogeneous manner due to complex, emergent interactions among the many constitutive elements of the airways and parenchyma, resulting in unique signature changes in the mechanical impedance spectrum of the lungs and total respiratory system as measured by forced oscillations techniques (FOT). When such impedance spectra are characterized by appropriate inverse models, one may obtain functional insight into derangements in global respiratory mechanics. In this review, we provide an overview of the impact of structural heterogeneity with respect to dynamic lung function. Recent studies linking functional impedance measurements to the structural heterogeneity observed in acute lung injury, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are highlighted, as well as current approaches for the modeling and interpretation of impedance. Finally, we discuss the potential diagnostic role of FOT in the context of therapeutic interventions.
Highlighted Topic asthma forced oscillations acute lung injury chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

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