Pulmonary ventilation and resistance in emphysematous and control horses.

Abstract

Differences in respiratory flow rates, volumes, and associated intrathoracic pressure changes are considered in emphysematous and control horses. Inspiratory flow rates were higher, tidal volumes lower, and intrathoracic pressure changes greater in diseased horses than in control horses. The greater expiratory resistance of some of the diseased group is associated with pronounced clinical symptoms. The importance of a greater degree and earlier onset of abdominal compression during expiration in the horse with increased expiratory resistance is emphasized.