dead space

noun

Definition of DEAD SPACE

: the portion of the respiratory system which is external to the bronchioles and through which air must pass to reach the bronchioles and alveoli

circa 1923

Medical Dictionary

noun

: space in the respiratory system in which air does not undergo significant gaseous exchange—see anatomical dead space, physiological dead space

: a space (as that in the chest following excision of a lung) left in the body as the result of a surgical procedure

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