Coupled and reduced dimensional modeling of respiratory mechanics during spontaneous breathing

In this paper we develop a total lung model based on a tree of zero dimensional (0D) airway and acinar models for studying respiratory mechanics during spontaneous breathing. This model utilizes both CT based geometries and artificially generated lobe filling airway trees to model the entire conducting region of the lung. Beyond the conducting airways we develop an acinar model, which takes into account the alveolar tissue resistance, compliance and the intrapleural pressure. With this methodology we compare four different 0D models of airway mechanics and determine the best model based on a comparison with a 3D-0D coupled model of the conducting airways; this methodology is possible since the majority of airway resistance is confined to the lower generations i.e. the trachea and the first few bronchial generations. As an example application of the model we simulate the flow and pressure dynamics under spontaneous breathing conditions i.e. at flow conditions driven purely by pleural space pressure. The results show good agreement, both qualitatively and quantitatively, with reported physiological values. One of the key advantages of this model is the ability to provide insight into lung ventilation in the peripheral regions. This is often crucial because this is where information, specifically for studying diseases and gas exchange, is needed. Thus, the model can be used as a tool for better understanding local peripheral lung mechanics without excluding the upper portions of the lung. This tool will be also useful for in vitro investigations of lung mechanics in both health and disease.     «

In this paper we develop a total lung model based on a tree of zero dimensional (0D) airway and acinar models for studying respiratory mechanics during spontaneous breathing. This model utilizes both CT based geometries and artificially generated lobe filling airway trees to model the entire conducting region of the lung. Beyond the conducting airways we develop an acinar model, which takes into account the alveolar tissue resistance, compliance and the intrapleural pressure. With this metho...     »