EFFECT OF VARIOUS NERVE LESIONS UPON THE BLOOD FLOW TO THE HIND EXTREMITY OF THE DOG

Abstract

Unilateral denervations were produced in the hind limb of 35 dogs, as follows: (a) ventral root section, L4 to L7, inclusive; (b) combined dorsal and ventral root sections, L4 to L7, inclusive; (c) peripheral nerve section (sciatic, femoral, and obturator nerves). 12 weeks after operation no significant differences in femoral artery blood flow and in limb temps. were observed between the normal limb and the limb denervated by either a ventral or dorsal-ventral root lesion. A significant reduction in flow (17.7%) and in temp. (-1.4[degree]C) occurred, however, in those limbs subjected to a peripheral nerve section. It is suggested that the reduced blood flow which may be present in a peripheral nerve paralysis is due to involvement of its sympathetic supply.