Detection of airway partitioning following unilateral nasal stimulations by the forced oscillation technique in rats.

Nasal mucosa has an extraordinary nerve supply with unique geometry that encompasses complex physiology. Among these, side-specific predilections to the respiratory and autonomic centers are the interesting issues that have been raised about the consequences of the nasal irritations. The aim of the study was an evaluation of how intranasal stimulation influences lung mechanics and determines whether unilateral stimulation produces side-specific partitioning responses. Tracheotomized-paralyzed rats received unilateral air-puff stimulation. Inspiratory pressure- volume (P-V) curve was obtained. Low frequency forced oscillation technique (FOT) was used to detect changes in central and peripheral airways. Mean airway pressure significantly increased to >10 cmH2O in the presence of 5cmH2O of positive end-expiratory pressure. Elastance was significantly changed, and significant higher airway resistance (Raw) and lower reactance (Xrs) were noticed in peripheral airways following different side of stimulation. Calculated inspiratory P-V curve showed significant deviations in transitional, rising and maximal pressures following stimulations. Transitional left-side shifting was observed following right side stimulation, whereas left side stimulation shifted the curve to the right. May be altered respiratory mechanics is the consequences of bimodal pressure-volume relationships observed in central and peripheral airways following nasal stimulation.