Pulsatile velocity of blood in the pulmonary artery of dogs: measurement by an ultrasound gauge

Abstract

An advanced model of an ultrasound flow gauge, mounted on a N7 catheter was used to measure flow velocity in the pulmonary artery of closed-chest dogs. The recorded flow signals were calibrated in cm/sec by determining stroke volume (by dye dilution) and diameter of the pulmonary artery (by angiography). The influence of positive and negative inotropic drugs on velocity and acceleration is reported.