Hepatic Blood Flow Measurement III

Abstract

The validity of the ICG [indocyanine green] clearance method for the measurement of THBF [total hepatic blood flow] in abnormal circulatory states remains questionable. In this study THBF measured by this method is compared with the electromagnetic flow technique in a canine septic model. Good correlation is demonstrated between the 2 in normal control animals. In the septic animals the ICG underestimated the electromagnetic flow result by 20%. This is true in the high and the low cardiac output septic shock pictures that emerge. In the septic animals, the total hepatic blood flow as measured by the ICG was almost equal to the protal vein flow alone measured by the electromagnetic flowmeters suggesting that this was the quantity it was measuring in this abnormal state. Pathophysiologic mechanisms that may explain the discrepancy are given.