Studies of the Cerebral Circulation and Metabolism in Congestive Heart Failure

Abstract

In a study of the cerebral circulation and metabolism in congestive heart failure, using Kety's nitrous oxide technic, it was found that no significant alterations of the cerebral circulation were present when the quantities measured were compared with values determined for a control group. A decrease in cerebral blood flow and oxygen consumption below values established for normal young individuals was demonstrated to be secondary to the presence of arteriosclerosis and not to cardiac decompensation as had previously been concluded. It was also found that in the series studied the increased venous and cerebrospinal fluid pressures were not of sufficient magnitude to affect the cerebral circulation. The factor of a decreased arterial carbon dioxide tension as a cause for diminished cerebral blood flow in cardiac decompensation was similarly considered and dismissed.