Tidal volume

Tidal Volume

Tidal volume (TV) is the volume of air that is inhaled or exhaled normally from the lungs during relaxed breathing. The typical value for humans during rest is approximately 500 milliliters.

Measurement

Tidal volume can be measured using a spirometer, which is a device that measures the amount of air you're able to breathe in and out and the speed of your breath. This measurement is an important part of pulmonary function testing.

Clinical significance

Tidal volume is a vital parameter in respiratory physiology. It is often altered in disease states and can be used as a predictive tool for outcomes in patients with lung disease and critical illness.

In mechanical ventilation, tidal volume is set to ensure adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal while minimizing the risk of barotrauma that could result from high ventilatory pressures.

See also

• Minute ventilation
• Vital capacity
• Inspiratory reserve volume
• Expiratory reserve volume
• Residual volume

References

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