抄録
Using the rabbit ear chamber (REC) method, the author compared the effect of hypocapnia and that of normocapnia on cutaneous microcirculation of rabbits. Eight rabbits, weighting 3-4kg, were used for this study, which were anesthetized with pentobarbital and pancuronium. To maintain PaO2 at 100-150mmHg and PaCO2 at 20-25mmHg (HYPOCAPNIC GROUP), they were mechanically ventilated with air-O2 and regulated. After observing the circulation of arteriole during hypocapnia for 15-20 minutes, to induce normocapnia, 100% CO2 was added to the inspired gas stepwise until PaCO2 reached 35-45mmHg (NORMOCAPNIC GROUP). And the circulationof arteriole was observed during normocapnia for 15-20 minutes.
No significant changes were observed in the blood pressure, heart rate and pulse pressure. However, significant change was observed in pH. During hypocapnia, the diameter, blood-flow velocity and blood-flow rate of the arterioles were markedly reduced (p<0.05).
This study using REC has shown that hypocapnia causes cutaneous microcirculatory changes and increase systemic vascular resistance.
