Physiological responses to spirometer load

A transient time-dependent increase in tidal volume (TV) and respiratory rate has been observed as a spirometric loading effect in experiments on 22 decerebrate cats. Respiration was recorded via the impedance pneumograph throughout the entire experiment while tidal volume was measured at intervals of 10-60 min on a spirometer. A total of 233 spirograms was recorded. The mean control tidal volume was 14 ml/kg, followed by an average increase of 30%, 43%, 51%, and 64% at 30, 60, 90, and 120 sec on the spirometer respectively. Spirometric respiratory rate also increased and as a result instantaneous minute volumes (MV) showed increases up to nearly 400% of control. Maximal effects occurred within 80 sec reflecting a sequential combination of reflex (via vagal afferents) and chemical (increased CO2) factors reaching a new equilibrium. We also noted a spirometric regularization of previously irregular or periodic (Biot's) breathing. It is apparent that the spirometer introduces small and graded perturbations into respiratory control systems.