Affiliation:
1. Neonatal Respiratory Unit, Groote Schuur Hospital and Department of Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
Abstract
Grunting was investigated in 22 infants with hyaline membrane disease. It was demonstrated to be a modified Valsalva maneuver, as during expiration intrapleural pressure was increased by closure of the glottis and contraction of the abdominal muscles. Grunting could be prevented if the trachea was intubated; but, during this period the arterial oxygen tension fell. After detubation grunting recommenced and arterial oxygen tension rose to previous levels. Therefore, grunting appears to be a protective form of breathing, aimed at raising the PaO2. This is probably achieved by improvement of alveolar ventilation, but the exact mechanism is not known.
Publisher
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Subject
Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
Cited by
32 articles.
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