Relationship between nasal obstruction and pulmonary ventilation in laryngectomized patients

Respiratory gases (Po2 and Pco2) in arterial blood were determined in 19 laryngectomized patients (47 to 77 years of age) following nasal obstruction. Po2 values were somewhat elevated, but the difference was statistically insignificant, while Pco2 value remained the same. These results to a certain extent correlate with the findings of Cave et al. on dogs, but with a minor correction which we explain by the effect of the second reflex arch of the trigeminal--phrenic and intercostal nerves. Respiration (rate, tidal volume and minute volume) was also tested and the results agreed with the findings of respiratory gases.