Diaphragm functions and their disorder during artificial ventilation of the lungs (literature review)

The aim of this review was to systematize the functions of the diaphragm and their disorders occurring during artificial lung ventilation, as well as to evaluate the possibilities of their osteopathic correction. The diaphragm is not only the main respiratory muscle, but also takes part in the functioning of cardiovascular, digestive and other systems of the body, including the central nervous system. Consequently, dysfunctions of the diaphragm negatively affect the condition of the entire body. They can be formed for various reasons, including in patients who are on artificial lung ventilation for a long time. Instrumental diagnosis of diaphragm dysfunction has not been developed, but osteopathic physicians have techniques for both diagnosis and correction of diaphragm dysfunction. There are relatively few publications proving the positive effect of osteopathic correction on external respiratory function. Osteopathic treatment of the diaphragm has potential benefit in reducing the time patients spend on ventilator and their rehabilitation afterwards. No such studies were found in the available literature, but they are highly relevant and may open new perspectives for the application of osteopathic correction.