Surfactant is a complex substance containing phospholipids and a number of apoproteins. This essential fluid is produced by the Type II alveolar cells, and lines the alveoli and smallest bronchioles. Surfactant reduces surface tension throughout the lung, thereby contributing to its general compliance. It is also important because it stabilizes the alveoli.
Stagnant anoxia occurs when there is interference with the blood flow, although the blood and its oxygen-carrying abilities are normal. A common cause of general stagnant anoxia is heart disease or interference with the return of blood flow through the veins.
Injury by Lack of Oxygen. Our brains use a great deal of our body's oxygen and if the brain is starved of oxygen, that condition is known as anoxia. Anoxia can occur during drowning incidents, a heart attack where breathing has stopped and there is no CPR, or in other circumstances.