title: Human respiratory mechanics demonstration model.
abstract: Respiratory mechanics is a difficult topic for instructors and students alike. Existing respiratory mechanics models are limited in their abilities to demonstrate any effects of rib cage movement on alveolar and intrapleural pressures. We developed a model that can be used in both large and small classroom settings. This model contains digital pressure displays and computer integration for real-time demonstration of pressure changes that correspond to the different phases of breathing. Moving the simulated diaphragm and rib cage causes a volume change that results in pressure changes visible on the digital sensors and computer display. Device testing confirmed the model's ability to accurately demonstrate pressure changes in proportion to physiological values. Classroom testing in 427 surveyed students showed improved understanding of respiratory concepts (P < 0.05). We conclude that our respiratory mechanics model is a valuable instructional tool and provide detailed instructions for those who would like to create their own.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, 1300 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA.
authors.forename: Janelle
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Anderson
authors.forename: Chris
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Goplen
authors.forename: Lynn
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Murray
authors.forename: Kristen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Seashore
authors.forename: Malini
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Soundarrajan
authors.forename: Andrew
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Lokuta
authors.forename: Kevin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Strang
authors.forename: Naomi
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Chesler
mesh_terms: D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D004581:Electronics; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010827:Physiology / Q000193:education*; D010994:Pleura; D015272:Pulmonary Medicine / Q000193:education*; D015656:Respiratory Mechanics; D012272:Ribs; D012984:Software; D013663:Teaching / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*