Isolated perfused rabbit lung as a model to study the absorption of organic aerosols.

An improved technique for perfused lung preparations adapted for absorption studies with organic aerosols is described. The model developed by Niemeier and Bingham (1972) was modified to place greater emphasis on the respiratory functions of the lung as an index of viability. Perfusion of this preparation for 2 hr showed that tidal volume, pulmonary blood flow, and visual appearance were the most sensitive indicators of physiological change. The importance of relevant criteria for assessment of viability is discussed. In addition, a simple technique for on-line computerized measurement of tidal volume and respiratory frequency is described.