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Spinal cord stimulation and cerebral blood flow: an experimental study
M Visocchi1, B Cioni, S Vergari
1Istituto di Neurochirurgia, Universitá Cattolica S. Cuore, Italia.
Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) in over half of rabbits studied. Cervical sympathetic trunk stimulation, however, consistently decreased CBF, suggesting distinct neural pathways influence blood flow.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is known to influence various circulatory systems.
- Previous research suggested a functional sympathectomy as a mechanism for SCS effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of SCS on cerebral blood flow (CBF) in an animal model.
- To explore the underlying mechanisms of SCS-induced changes in CBF.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a rabbit model with electrodes placed epidurally for SCS.
- Measured CBF velocity in carotid arteries using Doppler and electromagnetic flowmetry.
- Compared CBF during SCS, cervical sympathetic trunk (CST) stimulation, and combined stimulation.
Main Results:
- SCS led to increased CBF in 52.4% of rabbits, decreased CBF in 9.5%, and no change in 38%.
- CST stimulation consistently reduced CBF in all animals.
- Flowmetry confirmed Doppler findings.
Conclusions:
- SCS has a variable effect on CBF, with a tendency towards increase in rabbits.
- Cervical sympathetic trunk stimulation demonstrates a clear inhibitory effect on CBF.
- These findings support distinct neural pathways mediating SCS and sympathetic trunk effects on cerebral circulation.