Effect of isolated unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis on ventilation and exercise performance in rats. 
The degree of impairment of ventilation and exercise performance after unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis (UDP) induced by phrenic nerve injury has been controversial due to heterogeneity in the published clinical studies.  The aim of this study was to assess the effect of isolated UDP on breathing and exercise performance in conscious rats.  Breathing was measured by unrestrained whole body plethysmography during quiet breathing and after moderate aerobic exercise.  Additionally, incremental exercise testing was performed to evaluate the effects of intensive activity.  The results demonstrated that complete UDP in rats resulted in a permanent decrease of peak inspiratory flow at rest breathing.  Nevertheless, adequate ventilation could be maintained, and the breathing pattern was unaltered due to a strong compensatory mechanism and central re-coordination initiated by UDP.  After being affected at an early stage, the ventilatory response to exercise was gradually regained and subsequently restored.