Effects of carotid hypotension on aortic hemodynamics in the unanesthetized dog

The effects of occlusion of the brachiocephalic artery on aortic hemodynamics were assessed in 12 chronically instrumented dogs in the unanesthetized state. Continuous measurements of ascending aorta pressure and flow were made. In the steady state following occlusion, heart rate increased by 36% and mean arterial pressure by 45%, while cardiac output was unchanged from preocclusion levels. Hydraulic power delivery to the systemic circulation by the left ventricle was increased during occlusion, while the fraction of total power associated with pulsations decreased. Values of peripheral resistance and ascending aorta input impedance were both increased during occlusion. Graded occlusions of the brachiocephalic artery produced graded, monotonic increases in the entire aortic impedance spectrum between 2 and 20 Hz with more sensitive responses occurring with the smaller, submaximal responses. Considered with results of previous studies, these results suggest that activation of smooth muscle in large conduit arteries is also associated with the pressor response which accompanies carotid hypotension and that such activation has a hemodynamically significant effect.