Reduction of pulsatile hydraulic power in the pulmonary circultation caused by moderate vasoconstriction

Vascular input impedance and associated hydraulic power was measured in rabbit isolated lungs. The study was focused on changes in impedance and in pulsatile hydraulic power during relaxation and contraction of vascular smooth muscle. Pulsatile power was found to be at a minimum when smooth muscle tone was such that the pulmonary arterial pressure was in the physiological range, and increased both when the vessels were relaxed and further constricted. Input impedance was found to be determined mainly by the large, proximal ('extra-alveolar') arteries.