Flow dependence of gas distribution and the pattern of inspiratory muscle contraction

We measured regional distribution of xenon-133 boli at 0.25, 0.75, and 1.5 l/s in four normal seated subjects during inspirations performed predominantly with intercostal and accessory muscles (IC) or with the diaphragm, accompanied by outward abdominal motion (Ab). In six additional subjects we inferred the topographical distribution of helium boli during similar breaths and flow rates from the slope of the alveolar plateau recorded during a slow expiration (less than 0.5 l/s). Distribution of the helium boli was studied during natural as well as IC and Ab inspirations. At each of the flow rates IC breaths distributed relatively more of the inspired bolus to upper lung regions than did Ab inspirations. Natural breaths at 0.25 l/s resulted in distributions similar to those of Ab inspirations, whereas at 1.5 l/s the distribution approached that of IC inspirations. A three-compartment model, representing upper, middle, and lower lung regions, was used to simulate bolus distribution. The experimental data showed substantial departure from predictions based on regional time constants alone. However, additional small differences in applied pressure (less than 0.50 cmH2O) between the regions satisfactorily accounted for the gas distribution.