Pathophysiological mechanisms impairing function of respiratory muscles after surgery
| Effect on neural control of respiratory muscles (e.g. phrenicotomy) |
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| Effect on integrity of respiratory muscles by the surgical incision |
| Reflex mechanisms (phrenic nerve inhibition) |
| Change in the length/tension relationship (change in FRC) |
| Change in the thoracoabdominal mechanics (e.g. reduction of rib cage compliance) |
| Anaesthesia (pharmacological agents/loads) and postoperative pain |
| Specific surgical procedures (e.g. cooling during open heart surgery) |
| Surgery on organs affecting respiratory muscle function (e.g. parathyroidectomy) |