Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 21, 2026

Breathing-controlled Electrical Stimulation (BreEStim) for Management of Neuropathic Pain and Spasticity
Published on: January 10, 2013
Effects of neck flexion and mouth opening on inspiratory flow dynamics in awake humans
Eric Verin1, Frédéric Sériès, Chrystèle Locher
1Laboratoire de Physiopathologie Respiratoire, Service de Pneumologie, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié Salpetrière, 75651 Paris, France.
Abstract:
Phrenic nerve stimulation (PNS) can assess airflow dynamics of the upper airway (UA) during wakefulness in man. Using PNS, we aimed to assess the impact of neck flexion and mouth opening in promoting UA unstability. Measurements were made during nasal breathing in seven healthy subjects (ages = 23-39 yr; one woman). Surface diaphragm electromyogram, esophageal pressure referenced to mask pressure, and flow were recorded during diaphragm twitches with neck in neutral position and mouth closed and then with neck flexion and/or mouth opening. Twitches always exhibited a flow-limited pattern. Flow-limiting driving pressure (Pd) and peak Pd were increased by neck flexion (P < 0.01) without significant change in the corresponding flows. UA resistances at these flow values were higher with the neck flexed (P < 0.05). Mouth opening alone did not exert any significant influence. We conclude that the position of the neck has a discernible impact on the flow behavior through the nonphasically active UA faced with a negative Pd.
More Related Videos
08:34Investigation into Deep Breathing through Measurement of Ventilatory Parameters and Observation of Breathing Patterns
Published on: September 16, 2019
07:45Minimally Invasive Murine Laryngoscopy for Close-Up Imaging of Laryngeal Motion During Breathing and Swallowing
Published on: December 1, 2023
Related Concept Videos
Mechanism of Breathing I: Inspiration
The respiratory system, an essential network for breathing, comprises the conducting and respiratory zones, each playing a crucial role in the overall process of respiration. Let us explore the detailed mechanism of inspiration, or inhalation, which is the first phase of the respiratory cycle.
Pathway of Air during Inspiration
During inspiration, air enters our body through the nose or mouth and moves through the conducting zone,...
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Pulmonary Ventilation: Inhalation
Boyle's law becomes particularly pertinent when examining respiratory...
Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Application of Integration: Problem Solving