respiratory mechanics Flashcards
surfactant: explain the role of surfactant in ventilation and lung structure
1
Q
why is surfactant necessary
A
prevents collapse of small airways and alveoli, increasing compliancy (increased ability to inflate and maintain shape); reduces work of breathing; air-water interface exhibits surface tension, fluid-water interface does not - law of LaPlace
2
Q
what is surfactant
A
phospholipid mixture (80% polar phospholipids, 10% protein and 10% non-polar lipids)
3
Q
what secretes surfactant
A
type II pneumocytes
