Clinical Physiology

Clinical physiology involves functional investigations of different organs such as the heart, the blood vessels, the lungs and the gastrointestinal tract. The focus of our research is the development of high precision methods for fast and accurate diagnosis of various illnesses, and is most advanced within the fields of cardiovascular disease, lung function tests and investigations of the gastrointestinal tract.

Group leader:
Professor Andrei Malinovschi

Cardiovascular research: The research covers foremost ultrasound investigations of the heart and the blood vessels, including development of image analysis and software for calculation of various physiological parameters for diagnosis and prognosis of different cardiovascular diseases. Among several achievements have variables of pressure, flow and acceleration times been correlated to measurements by cardiac catheterization. This has allowed earlier and non-invasive diagnosis of different types of lesions within the cardiovascular system. Representatives for the cardiovascular research are Frank Flachskampf, Bertil Andrén, Sven-Olovf Granstam and Magnus Roos, who collaborate with Cardiology and Vascular Surgery at the University Hospital.

Lung function research: Studies are conducted for the development of new investigational methods such as impulse oscillometry, whereby a sonic wave is sent into the lungs. This non-invasive method to measure respiratory mechanics causes much less discomfort than ordinary, common practice, lung function tests. We also perform studies of diseases that affect lungs and airways to detect initial signs of disease and thereby start early treatment. These studies include diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, alveolitis and other inflammatory lung diseases. The lung function research includes also lung changes in connection to anesthesia and breathing dysfunction. Representatives for this area of research are Hans Hedenström and Andrei Malinovschi, and collaborations are close with the lung clinic, the anesthesiology clinic, the physical therapists and the pediatric clinic at the University Hospital.

Studies on the gastrointestinal tract: The research includes pressure and flow measurements within the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract as well as analyses of gases that may trace inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Studies are conducted using a small video camera, enclosed in a 2,5 cm capsule that is swallowed, and image analysis are employed to identify inflammation and other lesions in the small intestine. Representatives for the gastrointestinal physiology research is Hans Hedenström, and Sven-Olof Granstam. Collaborations are with gastroenterology och gastric surgery.

Studies of diseases by integrated physiological tests: Through ergospirometry (measurement of respiration and gas metabolism during ergometer exercise) one can study changes from both the respiratory system and the cardiovascular system, as well as muscular function in patients with multiple organ dysfunctions that affect the patients work capacity. Data from these tests guide the treatment and prognosis of different diseases and is also used for risk-stratification in advance of major surgery. Representatives for the research on ergospirometry are Hans Hedenström and Andrei Malinovschi, and collaborations are foremost with cardiology, lung medicine, anesthesiology and the pediatric clinic at the University Hospital.