A new computational model for expiratory flow from nonhomogeneous human lungs.

A model has been developed for expiration from human lungs in which the mechanical properties of the airways and parenchyma can be varied between regions. The model is based on an existing homogeneous model. The fluid mechanical problem of the merging of dissimilar flows from adjacent regions is underspecified by the conservation laws of mass and energy. An existing, empirically derived result, provides the required extra equation. Model simulation of a nonhomogeneously distributed mild constriction of the peripheral airways gives results for maximal flows and alveolar pressure differences which are in good agreement with recent experimental findings.