Intrarenal distribution of flow during perfusion

Intrarenal flow distribution in ischemic and nonischemic dog kidneys has been studied using the 133Xe washout technique and angiography. These preliminary studies showed two different hemodynamic alterations during perfusion, vasoconstriction, and diminution of cortical flow. Vasoconstriction of the renal artery and branches noted in both groups was observed to be a reversible phenomenon and disappeared within 1 hr of perfusion. A decrease in cortical flow was also seen at the beginning of perfusion in both groups, being much more severe in the ischemic group. Significant improvement in cortical flow was noted during the 1st hr of perfusion by both angiographic and washout techniques. This was most pronounced in the nonischemic group. The determination of flow distribution by 133Xe washout technique appears to correlate well with concomitant angiography. Future studies directed toward modification of preservation methods to minimize these changes may well lead to improvement of the present state of renal preservation.