Computational fluid dynamics evaluation of excessive dynamic airway collapse.

Background: Excessive dynamic airway collapse, which is often caused by the collapse of the posterior membrane wall during exhalation, is often misdiagnosed with other diseases; stents can provide support for the collapsing airways. The standard pulmonary function tests do not necessarily show change in functional breathing condition for evaluation of these type of diseases.

Methods: Flow characteristics through a patient's airways with excessive dynamic airway collapse have been numerically investigated.