Theoretic Limitations of the Nitrous Oxide Method for the Determination of Regional Blood Flow

Abstract

The nitrous oxide method for regional blood flow determination is based on the assumption that concentration equilibrium for nitrous oxide between the organ and its venous blood is reached. This assumption is examined, and it is shown mathematically that faulty equilibrium is not revealed by presently available criteria. It is shown that quantitatively and qualitatively erroneous results may be obtained by the use of this method for the estimation of regional blood flow.