Physiologic parameters of the Cushing reflex

The effects of increased intracranial pressure and blood gas tensions on systemic blood pressure were examined in this study. Intracranial pressure was raised hydrostatically and blood gas tensions, blood pressure, and respiration were monitored in anesthetized dogs. Small gradual increments in intracranial pressure resulted in increased cerebral venous carbon dioxide tension, followed by increased respiration, a gradual rise in blood pressure, and finally an increase in heart rate. The results of this study indicate that blood pressure changes appear to be determined by alterations in carbon dioxide tension following increases in intracranial pressure; small increases in intracranial pressure elicit a cluster of physiologic responses, all directed toward stabilization of local cerebral carbon dioxide tension.