Intrapleural pressure

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In physiology, intrapleural pressure (also called intrathoracic pressure) refers to the pressure within the pleural cavity. Normally, the pressure within the pleural cavity is slightly less than the atmospheric pressure, in what is known as negative pressure.[1] When the pleural cavity is damaged/ruptured and the intrapleural pressure becomes equal to or exceeds the atmospheric pressure, pneumothorax may ensue.

Intrapleural pressure depends on the ventilation phase, atmospheric pressure, and the volume of the intrapleural cavity.[2]

At rest we have a negative intrapleural pressure. This gives us a transpulmonary pressure expanding the lungs. Intrapleural pressure is sub-atmospheric. This is due to the recoil of the chest and lungs away from each other.

Müller's maneuver can temporarily significantly decrease the intrapleural pressure.[1]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Khanorkar, p. 205
  2. ↑ Blom, p. 7
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