[Changes in cerebral blood flow and microcirculation caused by cranio-cerebral injuries]

Posttraumatic cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral microcirculation (CM) changes are discussed separately in acute and chronic stage. The acute changes depend mostly on adrenergic and cholinergic reactions and posttraumatic vasomotor disturbances. The mechanisms of posttraumatic brain swelling, CBF and metabolism coupling and uncoupling are described. Late posttraumatic circulatory changes are caused mainly by brain oedema. The important influence on CBF and CM has also the applied therapy including infusions, osmotherapy and hyperventilation.