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Learn comprehensive respiratory physiology through this 22-hour course covering lung mechanics, gas exchange, and respiratory regulation. Master the anatomy of the respiratory system including the pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli, along with thoracic anatomy and respiratory histology. Explore the mechanics of breathing, understanding normal inhalation and exhalation processes, diaphragm action, and the role of intercostal muscles in respiratory function. Study lung pressures including intrapulmonary, intrapleural, and transmural pressures, while examining airway resistance, dead space, lung compliance, and surface tension effects. Analyze pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and spirometry, learning to interpret lung volumes, capacities, FEV1/FVC ratios, and distinguish between obstructive and restrictive lung diseases. Investigate oxygen transport mechanisms including oxygen content, saturation, partial pressure, and the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve with its clinical implications. Examine ventilation-perfusion relationships, alveolar gas equations, and alveolar-arterial gradients to understand gas exchange efficiency. Delve into acid-base physiology covering respiratory acidosis and alkalosis, buffer systems, and the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation for clinical interpretation. Study carbon dioxide transport, the chloride-shift phenomenon, and the Bohr and Haldane effects on oxygen and carbon dioxide binding. Explore pathophysiology topics including different types of hypoxia, pneumothorax, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, and lung surfactant function, while connecting respiratory physiology to cardiovascular regulation through baroreceptor and Bainbridge reflexes.
