Will butt breathing in the end be a viable option to get oxygen into the body? (Photo: Getty)
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One potential future method of breathing involves the concept of “butt breathing,” which entails using a liquid to deliver oxygen to the bloodstream through the rectum. This innovative approach could offer an alternative method of oxygenation when traditional respiratory pathways are compromised. While still in the experimental phase, recent progress in this area is promising, as highlighted in a new publication in the journal Med.
The Study Suggests That Injecting Perfluorodecalin Up Your Butt Is Safe
A recent Phase 1 clinical study explored the safety and tolerability of injecting non-oxygenated perfluorodecalin into the rectums of healthy adult male participants. The study, conducted by a team of researchers from various institutions, aimed to assess the feasibility of this unique approach. While some participants experienced minor discomfort, no serious adverse events were reported, indicating the potential safety of the method.
Although the study did not directly evaluate the efficacy of oxygen transfer through this method, it laid the groundwork for further exploration. The concept of enteral ventilation, delivering oxygen through the intestines, offers a novel perspective on oxygenation that may have future implications in medical practice.
Why Butt Breathing May Be Needed
While traditional methods of ventilation remain the primary approach for respiratory support, butt breathing could offer a valuable alternative in certain scenarios. When respiratory function is compromised due to various conditions, such as lung infections or neuromuscular issues, alternative oxygen delivery methods become crucial. Butt breathing may provide a solution for individuals who cannot undergo traditional ventilation or require a different approach to oxygenation.
The Next Steps For Butt-Breathing
Building on the initial success of the study, future research will likely focus on exploring oxygenated versions of perfluorodecalin for butt breathing. If subsequent studies demonstrate the effectiveness of this method in delivering oxygen to the bloodstream, it could pave the way for further development and potential clinical applications.
