ventilatory perfusion

Ventilatory perfusion refers to the process of how air reaches areas within the lungs (ventilation) and how blood flows through lung tissues (perfusion). Effective gas exchange requires a balance between these two: air must reach alveoli (tiny air sacs) where oxygen is transferred to the blood, and blood must flow through lung capillaries to pick up the oxygen. Proper ventilatory perfusion ensures oxygen efficiently enters the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is removed, maintaining healthy oxygen levels and overall respiratory function. Disruptions in either ventilation or perfusion can lead to impaired oxygenation of the body.