Respiratory Mechanics

Lung function is expressed through pressure and flow measurements in respiratory mechanics. A number of derived indices, such as flow, pressure, volume, compliance, resistance, and work of breathing, can be calculated from this data (WOB). Lung volumes, and thus functional residual capacity (FRC) and gas exchange, are directly affected by these parameters. When one of the parameters of respiratory mechanics is plotted as a function of time or as a function of another parameter, waveforms are generated. Pressure-time, flow-time, and volume-time visuals, as well as flow-volume (V-V) and pressure-volume (P-V) loops, are all scalar tracings. At the bedside, all current-generation positive-pressure ventilators, including those used in the operating room, provide some pulmonary mechanics monitoring. Advanced respiratory mechanics monitoring methods, such as esophageal pressure and diaphragmatic electrical activity, are also available to give extensive study of breathing efforts and diaphragmatic function. Patient assessment during mechanical ventilation requires an understanding of respiratory mechanics in order to fit the available technology to the patient's demands. The objectives are to improve the patient's pulmonary physiology, provide adequate gas exchange, maintain alveolar recruitment, reduce the risk of damage, and maintain hemodynamic stability. During your assessment, analyze and incorporate data of respiratory mechanics to get the information you need for appropriate intraoperative mechanical ventilation. Optimizing settings necessitates a thorough understanding of the complexities of patient-ventilator interactions, especially in terms of the measured variables as displayed by ventilator graphics.