CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTS Pulmonary Function after Uncomplicated Myocardial

Derangement of pulmonary function following myocardial infarction is related to the severity of hemodynamic dysfunction. Abnormalities of pulmonary function appear even in patients without clinical or radiologic evidence of congestive failure. There is a reduction in vital capacity and rates of air flow. There is evidence for dysfunction of “small airways” and diminished ventilation to dependent parts of the lung. Total lung capacity may be normal or reduced, and residual volume may be increased slightly in uncomplicated myocardial infarction. Residual volume falls with more pronounced pulmonary congestion and edema. Distribution of pulmonary perfusion is altered after myocardial infarction, with a shift of