[Changes in lung ventilation functions in 332 patients with deformity of the spinal column]

Examination of lung ventilation was performed on 332 patients with deformity of spinal column. The results suggest that there are significant differences in vital capacity, forced expired volume in one second/forced vital capacity, maximum ventilation volume, index of air flow velocity and residual capacity/total lung capacity between the patients and controls. Comparisons according to the degree of deformity (antiflexion above 70 degrees and below 69 degrees), type of deformity (lateralflexion and multipledeformity involving chest, hip joint) and duration of the disease (over 15 years and below 10 years) show significant differences in vital capacity and maximum ventilation volume. Preoperative examination of pulmonary function can provide an objective basis for operative indication, selection of anesthesia and postoperative care.