Cardiogenic oscillations: a potential mechanism enhancing oxygenation during apneic respiration.

Adequate oxygen uptake by the lungs for prolonged apneic periods is possible even in the absence of respiratory movements provided that 100% O2 is applied at the airway opening. The mechanism by which adequate gas mixing takes place during this apneic respiration is not entirely clear. We propose that a major mechanism producing O2 uptake during apnea is the enhanced gas mixing secondary to airflow generated by the beating heart.