[Characteristics of hemodynamics of the lesser circulation in chronic pneumonia according to ergometric data]

Rheopneumographic examinations were conducted in 54 patients with chronic pneumonia (stage I and II pulmonary insufficiency) prior to and following exercise tests. It was demonstrated that in normal individuals physical exercises cause a compensatory increase of the pulmonary blood flow without elevating the pressure in the pulmonary circulation system. The progression of pulmonary insufficiency is accompanied by a reduction of the adaptation capacity of the heart, of the pulmonary vessels, by an increase of pulmonary hypertension, and impairment of the contractile function of the right ventricular myocardium. The severity of changes in the pulmonary system haemodynamics, as shown by rheopneumography, correlates with the disorders in the oxygen regimen (oxygen consumption and oxygen pulse).