Final answer:
Paralysis of the diaphragm or intercostal muscles would stop ventilation since they are key in creating the negative pressure required for air to flow into the lungs. The medulla oblongata and pontine respiratory group control the neuron signals to these muscles. During general anesthesia, artificial means such as endotracheal intubation are used to maintain an open airway due to the temporary cessation of normal respiratory muscle function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paralysis of the diaphragm would have a significant impact on ventilation. The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for breathing, particularly during relaxed states. When it contracts, it creates a negative pressure inside the thoracic cavity, which allows air to flow into the lungs (inspiration). If the diaphragm is paralyzed, inspiration cannot occur because the intrapleural pressure would not decrease to allow air to enter the lungs. Similarly, the intercostal muscles, which lift the ribcage and assist in expanding the thoracic cavity, could also not compensate. Without the diaphragm or intercostal muscles functioning properly, ventilation would stop entirely.
Neurons that innervate the muscles of the respiratory system, including the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, are responsible for regulating pulmonary ventilation. These neurons are centrally located in the medulla oblongata and pontine respiratory group. During situations like sustained muscular contraction or shock, these muscles may not receive proper signals to perform their functions, leading to cessation of respiration.
During conditions like general anesthesia, the muscles of respiration do not move the diaphragm or chest wall as they would normally. Endotracheal intubation is a procedure that helps maintain an open airway to the lungs and is necessary because the patient's own respiratory muscles are not functioning properly to maintain breathing.