A digital simulation of transient oxygen transport in capillary‐tissue systems (cerebral grey matter). Development of a numerical method for solution of transport equations describing coupled convection‐diffusion systems

Abstract

Abstract The mechanism by which oxygen is transported from capillaries into tissue for cell respiration has been a subject of interest since the work of August Krogh in 1919. Mathematical analyses of the diffusion process have been obtained by several investigators ( 11, 12, 18 ), but are limited in scope by the complicated nature of the problem. However, the solutions that exist give enough insight to inspire a more rigorous treatment. With the advant of electronic computers more complete analyses are now within reach ( 16 ). The human brain accounts for less than 4% of the total body weight, yet it uses 15 to 20% of the total body oxygen consumption. This high metabolic rate makes the brain particularly vulnerable to any change in the normal oxygen supply. The fact that following a cessation of cerebral blood flow, unconsciousness develops within 10 sec., and irreversible damage within 10 min., demonstrates the importance of understanding the dynamics of oxygen supply to the brain.