Breathing Control Objectives The primary goal of respiratory regulation is to keep blood gases, particularly arterial carbon dioxide (Pa CO 2), within a very narrow range. Even a slight rise in Pa CO 2 may result in an increase in minute ventilation of a substantial magnitude. Although the respiratory center's production is less responsive to changes in arterial partial pressure of oxygen (Pa O 2), hypoxia may augment the reaction to Pa CO 2. 1 Another goal of respiratory control is to regulate the brain's pH. Due to the great diffusibility of CO2 across the bloodâbrain barrier, this is accomplished by modulating alveolar ventilation, which controls Pa CO 2. Finally, but certainly not least, breathing regulation tries to optimize breathing frequency and work output of the respiratory muscles in order to ensure appropriate gas exchange. 2
Your airway resembles an upside-down tree. When you inhale, air enters the trunk-like trachea, which separates into two big branch-like bronchi. These bronchi subsequently split into increasingly smaller branches throughout each lung. The respiratory bronchioles are the smallest of these branches. A cluster of grape-like structures termed alveoli is attached to the respiratory bronchiole. Alveoli are air sacs that resemble grapes or balloons (each air sac is known as an alveolus). Each lung has around 300 million alveoli. These microscopic sacs have delicate walls lined with small blood vessels called capillaries that enable gases to pass between the air we breathe and our blood. The lungs collect oxygen from the air and expel carbon dioxide from our blood. Exercises for Breathing and Coughing
General anesthesia is a kind of anesthetic that is used to numb the patient during surgery. The medication is either breathed or delivered through an intravenous (IV) line. To ensure optimal breathing during surgery, a breathing tube may be placed into the windpipe. Once the operation is completed, the anesthesiologist will discontinue the anesthesia and you will be transferred to the recovery room for further monitoring. Your Anesthesiologist's Biography
If an epidural or peripheral nerve block was used during your operation, the catheter may be kept in place and anesthetic can be prolonged to assist manage pain in the postoperative period. Additionally, you may have some control over the quantity of pain medicine delivered via these catheters, within certain limitations. You will be constantly watched during the procedure to prevent problems such as excessive sedation or falls. The correct use of analgesics before to, during, and after surgery is a critical element of your therapy. Proper pain medication usage may aid in recovery and make your joint replacement experience more pleasurable. Take the time to examine your choices with your doctor, and don't be afraid to ask questions about anything you're unsure about.
