Related Experiment Videos
Positional changes in gas exchange after unilateral pulmonary embolism
1Pulmonary Section, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison.
Chest
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Positional changes in oxygenation were observed in patients with pulmonary embolism. Placing the affected lung lower improved oxygen levels, unlike in other lung diseases.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Massive pulmonary embolism can cause severe respiratory failure.
- Understanding gas exchange in pulmonary embolism is crucial for patient management.
- Mechanical ventilation strategies are often employed in these critical cases.
Observation:
- Two patients with respiratory failure due to massive pulmonary embolism were studied.
- Oxygenation levels were monitored based on patient positioning.
- Positional effects on oxygenation differed from those seen in unilateral pulmonary disease.
Findings:
- Oxygenation improved when the "sick" lung (affected by embolism) was in the dependent position.
- Oxygenation deteriorated when the "healthy" lung was in the dependent position.
- This observed positional effect is contrary to typical findings in unilateral lung disease.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a unique response to positioning in massive pulmonary embolism.
- A combination of pulmonary embolism and mechanical ventilation may influence gas exchange.
- Further research is needed to clarify the interplay between embolism, ventilation, and positioning.