Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

The lungs are responsible for oxygenating the blood and removing carbon dioxide from the body. They are also responsible for a very substantial burden of disease in the UK and worldwide population, and for the cancellation or complication of many surgical procedures. This brief article reviews the basic mechanics of the respiratory system, and highlights some of the important and interesting aspects of the regulation of ventilation, focussing on the role of the peripheral and central chemoreceptors. A sound knowledge of this basic respiratory physiology and pathophysiology is a prerequisite for effective preoperative assessment and good perioperative care. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.mpsur.2011.02.004

Type

Journal article

Journal

Surgery

Publication Date

01/05/2011

Volume

29

Pages

212 - 216