Effect of oxygen at 2 atmospheres on the pulmonary mechanics of normal man.

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Abstract
Six normal subjects who inspired pure O2 at an ambient pressure of 2 Ata for 6-11 hr. developed symptoms of pulmonary irritation and statistically significant changes in vital capacity and dynamic pulmonary compliance. Changes in functional residual capacity, residual volume, airway resistance, total pulmonary resistance, and chest roentgenograms were not significant. Transpulmonary pressure gradients in 2 subjects were found after O2 exposure to be less during forceful inspiration. Measurement of lung volumes and pulmonary mechanics made 14-22 hr. after discontinuing the O2 exposure were not significantly different from control. With this degree of O2 exposure long-lasting alterations of the mechanical properties of the lung apparently did not occur. The progressive decrease in vital capacity may have resulted from factors which limited inspiratory effort. Obstruction of large airways was not a major manifestation. Decreased lung compliance could not be attributed to atelectasis or pulmonary edema but may have resulted from a number of factors including alterations of lung surfactant or pulmonary tissue elastic elements.