Effect of Physical Training on Anatomical R-L Shunt at Rest and Pulmonary Diffusing Capacity during Near-Maximal Exercise in Boys 11–13 Years Old

Abstract

Anatomical R-L shunt at rest and the pulmonary diffusing capacity during near-maximal exercise were studied in 9 boys aged 11 to 13 years before and after a 16-week period of systematic physical training. Physical training resulted in a significant decrease of resting anatomical R–L shunt from 4.6 to 2.9 per cent of cardiac output, corresponding to a Pao₂ of 607 and 635 mm Hg during oxygen breathing respectively. Physical training failed to induce any change in exercise DL_CO despite a significant increase of cardiac output and ventilation.

Key Words:

• Anatomical R-L shunt
• exercise diffusing capacity
• physical training
• prepubertal boys