[Comparison of pulmonary compliance and the work of breathing with pulmonary function parameters in men]

Dynamic and static pulmonary compliance as well as the work of breathing are essential parameters for describing respiratory mechanics. However, current reference values or correlations with other pulmonary function variables have been established only in studies with small numbers of participants. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to compare pulmonary compliance and the work of breathing with different pulmonary function parameters in a large number of men.

In 208 healthy men, aged 20 to 70 years, spirometry, bodyplethysmography and carbon monoxide transfer factor measurements were conducted. The esophageal pressure method was used to measure dynamic (C (dyn)) and static (C (stat)) compliance.

C (dyn) and C (stat) were significantly correlated with total lung capacity (TLC), vital capacity (VC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV (1)) and carbon monoxide transfer factor (T (LCO)). C (dyn) decreased with increasing age, while C (stat) was correlated with height. The elastic and non-elastic work of breathing were significantly correlated with airway resistance, but not with aging.

Lung volumes are important for the interpretation of pulmonary compliance and the work of breathing and therefore have to be considered in the assessment of respiratory mechanics. In contrast, the work of breathing is essentially influenced by the airway resistance. With increasing age there is only a small decrease in pulmonary compliance and the work of breathing.