Effect of Alterations in Vasomotor Tone on Pressure-Flow Relationships in the Totally Perfused Dog

Abstract

The technic of total body perfusion with a pump oxygenator system has been used to extend pressure flow studies to the circulation as a whole. The effect of alterations in vasomotor tone on both total peripheral resistance and pressure flow relationships has been investigated by surgical ablation of the central nervous system or administration of vasoactive drugs. Certain aspects of the results obtained are discussed in relation to the concept of critical closing pressures.