Effect of increased breathing frequency on inspiratory resistance in emphysema

Abstract

The influence of an increase in breathing frequency on the dynamic flow resistance of the lungs has been studied in six patients with pulmonary emphysema. All patients demonstrated the expected fall in pulmonary compliance at the increased breathing rate. In only two of the six subjects did the dynamic flow resistance fall at the increased frequency. The failure to demonstrate the predicted drop in resistance is not due to midposition shifts or to a change in respiratory flow pattern at the higher rate. Submitted on January 25, 1962