Exploring Elastic and Non-Elastic Work in Breathing Mechanics

In this episode we take a look at the physiology behind 'Mechanics of Breathing'. This is a big section of the Respiratory Physiology topic and has 7 learning objectives. We breakdown the anatomy of the diaphragm (00:24), then look at surfactant and its role with reducing surface tension (08:06). We take a deep dive into compliance of the lung and chest (15:57) followed by an explanation of fast and slow alveoli (28:44) and understanding work of breathing (32:31). Finally we have a look at some of the past SAQs from previous ANZCA exams (42:18) and then summarise the main points (48:01). Next episode we will go through 'Gas Volumes and Gas Exchange.' Thanks for listening! As always if you have any feedback let me know