This book offers a state-of-the-art description of the complexity of the healthy and
pathological respiratory system with particular reference to the mechanics of the airways
lung and chest wall. Detailed information is provided on new insights into the mechanics of
breathing that have been obtained through technological innovations in measurement systems
cutting-edge modeling techniques and novel approaches to functional imaging of the respiratory
system. It is explained how these advances permit the assessment of emerging treatment
approaches including new drugs innovative surgical techniques and modes of mechanical
ventilation and new forms of rehabilitation. In order to ensure comprehensive coverage of the
subject the editor has assembled a multidisciplinary team of authors comprising basic
scientists in respiratory medicine chest and intensive care physicians and bioengineers
involved in both modeling and instrumentation. The book is intended for intensive care
physicians respirologists physiologists rehabilitation specialists basic scientists in
respiration research and clinical fellows biomedical engineers involved with respiratory
mechanics and respiratory therapists. They will update their knowledge and improve their
clinical expertise.
