Microcirculatory responses to vascular washout following ischemia

This study examined the microcirculatory alterations in the hindlimb of the rat caused by ischemia and vascular washout with lactated Ringer's solution. Experimental groups consisted of innervated and denervated animals, each subjected to 2 hours of hindlimb ischemia. The ischemic period was then followed by either vascular washout or no washout prior to reperfusion. The cutaneous capillary blood flow was measured using laser Doppler velocimetry. The results demonstrated a substantial increase in early reperfusion flow above baseline in the innervated groups, more apparent in the group subjected to vascular washout. In all cases where there was elevated early flow, later flow levels were decreased. The results and proposed mechanisms of the response are discussed.