Which of the following pathophysiologic changes seen in ARDS is responsible for the decrease in available surface area for gas exchange?

Question

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Vascular changes occur throughout the later stages of ARDS with obliteration of small precapillary vessels and an increase in the medial thickness of intra-acinar pulmonary arteries. Overall, these changes markedly decrease the available surface area for gas exchange and result in intractable respiratory failure or chronic lung disease, potentially requiring prolonged ventilator support.

Which of the Following Pathophysiologic Changes Seen in ARDS Is