#307 Dead Space Ventilation Explained: Anatomic, Alveolar, Physiologic, Applications (V/Q and Shunt)

WhiteBoard Medicine - Emergency And Critical Care · Aug 16, 2026 · 22m

Dead space ventilation is a foundational concept in pulmonary physiology and mechanical ventilation. In this episode, we review anatomic dead space, alveolar dead space, physiologic dead space, and how dead space relates to ventilation-perfusion mismatch, shunt physiology, CO2 clearance, respiratory failure, and bedside clinical interpretation. Topics covered include: • What dead space ventilation means • Anatomic dead space • Alveolar dead space • Physiologic dead space • Ventilation without effective gas exchange • Relationship between dead space and CO2 clearance • High V/Q physiology •…