THE EFFECT OF POSITIVE END-EXPIRATORY PRESSURE ON FUNCTIONAL RESIDUAL CAPACITY - ROLE OF PROSTAGLANDIN PRODUCTION

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Abstract
Lung distension can generate prostaglandins. To determine if a prostaglandin-mediated peripheral (alveolar duct) bronchodilator effect contributes to the increase in functional residual capacity (FRC) observed with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), PEEP was applied to 8 beagle dogs at 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 cm H2O; FRC was measured at each level and immediately after cessation of PEEP. This experiment was then repeated after the i.v. administration of indomethacin 10 mg/kg. Results indicate a significant reduction of FRC (P < 0.05) at 5, 7.5, and 10 cm PEEP after the administration of indomethacin. FRC initially failed to return to baseline immediately after cessation of PEEP but did so after indomethacin. Endogenous prostaglandin production may be partially responsible for the elevation of FRC with PEEP.