Inspiration Closure Reflex: The Effect of Respiration on Intrinsic Sphincters
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Muscle and Nerve
Abstract
Introduction: The functions of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and internal urethral sphincter (IUS) have not been reported during voluntary and involuntary respiratory maneuvers.
Methods: In this study we performed a prospective barium videofluoroscopy study (BSV) of the LES on 4 healthy adult men during voluntary cough (VC), laryngeal expiration reflex (LER), breath-hold maneuvers, and normal inspiration. One subject had fiber-optic pressure catheters placed in the LES and IUS, and electromyographic recording of the right T7-8 intercostals during respiration.
Results: BSV showed closure and relaxation of the LES corresponding to the inspiration and expiration of VC. The LES was patent during the LER. There was closure of the LES during the deep inspiration/breath-hold event. Pressure catheters in the LES and IUS showed increased pressure during inspiration.
Conclusions: These observations suggest that pulmonary inspiration afferents elicit a patterned reflex motor response in the LES and IUS, referred to as the inspiration closure reflex (ICR).
DOI
10.1002/mus.23680
Publication Date
3-2013
Keywords
Cough, Esophageal sphincter, Internal urethral sphincter, Lower, Respiration, Stress, Urinary incontinence, Vagus nerve
ISSN
1097-4598
Recommended Citation
Addington W, Stephens R, Miller SP, Ockey RR. Inspiration Closure Reflex: The Effect of Respiration on Intrinsic Sphincters. Muscle and Nerve. 2013; 47(3). doi: 10.1002/mus.23680.
