Functions of Surfactants in Alveoli

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Video Summary:
This video is on functions of surfactants in alveoli in respiratory system. Alveolar wall is line with fluid. This fluid has surface tension that creates multiple problems. Like due to surface tension on the fluid, alveoli tends to collapse. It makes it harder to inflate the lungs. Second problem is fluid accumulation in the alveoli. As the surface tension tries to decrease surface area or collapse the fluid film, it draws fluid from interstitium into the alveoli. This increases thickness of fluid layer of alveoli. This increased thickness makes it more difficult for respiratory gases to diffuse through it. Third problem is, as per Laplace law, the smaller alveoli produces higher pressure on the air inside the alveoli as compared to the pressure generated in larger alveoli. So smaller alveoli collapses into larger alveoli. This collapsing decreases total surface area available for gas exchange. So such collapsing should be prevented. Surfactants by decreasing surface tension, solves all three problems. They makes it easy to expand lungs or in other words, increase compliance of the lung. Second, they prevent fluid accumulation in the alveoli and third, they prevent collapsing of smaller alveoli into larger alveoli. In the video, all the functions are described with help of animation.

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DISCLAIMER: This video is for education purpose only. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy of material, viewer should refer to the appropriate regulatory body/authorised websites, guidelines and other suitable sources of information as deemed relevant and applicable. In view of possibility of human error or changes in medical science, any person or organization involved in preparation of this work accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions or results obtained from use of information in this video.