What is the normal static compliance (Cst) in mL/cm H2O?

The normal static compliance (Cst) of the lungs is considered to fall within the range of 60 to 100 mL/cm H2O. Static compliance is a measure of the lung's ability to expand when a pressure is applied, reflecting the distensibility of the lung tissue and the thoracic cage.

In healthy individuals, compliance within this range indicates that the lungs can expand effectively with minimal resistance. A value less than 60 mL/cm H2O may signal decreased lung compliance, which can occur in conditions such as pulmonary fibrosis or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), while values greater than 100 mL/cm H2O may be seen in cases of over-distension or emphysema, where lung tissue is highly compliant but may indicate underlying pathology.

Thus, understanding normal static compliance values is crucial for assessing lung mechanics in patients receiving mechanical ventilation, as it aids clinicians in determining appropriate ventilator settings and managing respiratory care.