Influence of pulmonary arterial and left atrial pressures on pulmonary vascular resistance.

A method has been developed by which flow to each lung, as well as pulmonary artery and left atrial pressures can be measured and varied at will. Vascular resistances were determined over a wide range of these variables. Both pressures have a marked effect on vascular resistances; the higher either pressure, the lower the resistances. This effect is most marked at low levels of pressure and flow. The absolute levels of the pressures, by affecting vascular distension, are major determinants of pulmonary vascular resistance.