In a flail chest,which pressure gradients are responsible for the inward movement on inspiration of the section of unattached ribs?
I.Transpulmonary
II.Transmural
III.Transthoracic
IV.Transrespiratory
A) I and III only
B) II and IV only
C) I and II only
D) II and III only

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The transpulmonary pressure gradient (the difference in pressure between the inside of the lungs and the pleural space) and the transthoracic pressure gradient (the difference in pressure between the inside of the thoracic cavity and the outside environment) are responsible for the inward movement of the section of unattached ribs during inspiration in a flail chest. These gradients cause the chest wall to move paradoxically because the normal structural support is disrupted.

In a Flail Chest,which Pressure Gradients Are Responsible for the Inward