Regulation of Intestinal Blood Flow
Journal of Surgical Research 93, 182–196 (2000) doi:10.1006/jsre.2000.5862, available online at http://www.idealibrary.com on RESEARCH REVIEW Regulation of Intestinal Blood Flow Paul J. Matheson, Ph.D.,*,†,1 Mark A. Wilson, M.D., Ph.D.,*,†,‡ and R. Neal Garrison, M.D.*,†,‡ *Center for Excellence in Applied Microcirculatory Research and ‡Department of Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40292; and †Louisville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Louisville, Kentucky 40206 Submitted for publication July 29, 1999 arteries is typically 20–25% of cardiac output in the The gastrointestinal system anatomically is posi- unfed state [2]. There is extensive overlap or collateral tioned to perform two distinct functions: to digest and circulation in the distal vascular distributions of these absorb ingested nutrients and to sustain barrier func- arteries. During nutrient absorption, blood flow in each tion to prevent transepithelial migration of bacteria of these arteries is increased sequentially as the diges- and antigens. Alterations in these basic functions con- tive chyme passes over the mucosal surface supplied by tribute to a variety of clinical scenarios. These pri- mary functions intrinsically require splanchnic blood the particular arteries [3]. Following nutrient absorp- flow at both the macrovascular and microvascular lev- tion, the blood flow to each segment returns to baseline els of perfusion. Therefore, a greater understanding of levels as the chyme moves past that region of the the mechanisms that regulate intestinal vascular per- digestive tract [4, 5]. This postprandial increase in fusion in the normal state and during pathophysiolog- blood flow is independent of organ distention and is ical conditions would be beneficial.
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