Question

Problem 21

Answer 1

Background and context

Lung volume, capacity, flow rates, resistance, and gas exchange are all measured using pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Increased resistance owing to airway occlusion in obstructive lung disease, and then small quantities due to limited inspiration in the constricted lung. Airway resistance may be calculated using the airflow velocity, the diameter of the airways, and the physical parameters of the gas breathed.

 

PFT can be perfumed using the following two methods:

 

• Spirometry A spirometer is a device with a mouthpiece that is connected to a small electronic machine.

 

• Plethysmography. It is a sort of scanning where the patient sits or stands inside an air-tight box, similar to a square telephone booth, for testing.