A Method for Quantifying Blood Flow Distribution Among the Alveoli of the Lung

This article describes a method for quantifying blood flow distribution among lung alveoli. Our method is based on analysis of trapping patterns of small diameter (4 μm) fluorescent latex particles infused into lung capillaries. Trapping patterns are imaged using confocal microscopy, and the images are analyzed statistically using SAS subroutines. The resulting plots provide a quantifiable way of assessing interalveolar perfusion distribution in a way that has not previously been possible. Methods for using this technique are described, and the SAS routines are included. This technique can be an important tool for learning how this critical vascular bed performs in health and disease.