[Technics for the functional evaluation of the thoracic cage]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Physiology
• Respiratory Mechanics

Context:

• Lung volumes provide an index of thoracic mobility.
• Thoracic wall movements can be compartmentalized using magnetometry and respiratory plethysmography.
• Quantitative evaluation of thoraco-abdominal incoordination is crucial in respiratory conditions.

Purpose:

• To analyze techniques for assessing respiratory muscle function and fatigue.
• To evaluate methods for quantifying thoraco-abdominal movements and pressures.
• To explore the detection of respiratory muscle fatigue through various physiological measurements.

Summary:

• Magnetometry and plethysmography separate thoracic and abdominal movements, aiding in the quantitative evaluation of thoraco-abdominal incoordination.
• Maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures, along with trans-diaphragmatic pressure, assess respiratory muscle force and functional reserve.
• Respiratory muscle fatigue is detected by diminished maximal pressures and changes in diaphragmatic electromyogram patterns.

Impact:

• Enables early detection of respiratory muscle fatigue.
• Provides insights into functional reserve in patients with chronic airflow obstruction.
• Facilitates a better understanding of respiratory mechanics and muscle coordination.