BACKGROUND: The forced oscillation technique is a new approach for assessing perioperative respiratory function. METHODS: This study enrolled 40 patients undergoing general anesthesia: 20 for ≥2 hours and 20 for <2 hours. Respiratory parameters were measured the day before and after surgery using forced oscillation during normal tidal breathing. RESULTS: Respiratory resistance at 5 Hz (P = 0.029 with the Student t test with unequal variances and P = 0.033 with analysis of covariance) changed significantly in the patients who underwent procedures for which they were anesthetized for >2 hours. CONCLUSIONS: The forced oscillation technique is a clinical tool that can be used to assess the effects of perioperative ventilation strategies on respiratory mechanics.
BACKGROUND: The forced oscillation technique is a new approach for assessing perioperative respiratory function. METHODS: This study enrolled 40 patients undergoing general anesthesia: 20 for ≥2 hours and 20 for <2 hours. Respiratory parameters were measured the day before and after surgery using forced oscillation during normal tidal breathing. RESULTS: Respiratory resistance at 5 Hz (P = 0.029 with the Student t test with unequal variances and P = 0.033 with analysis of covariance) changed significantly in the patients who underwent procedures for which they were anesthetized for >2 hours. CONCLUSIONS: The forced oscillation technique is a clinical tool that can be used to assess the effects of perioperative ventilation strategies on respiratory mechanics.