Cardiovascular changes in terminal stage
Nishimura, N.; Miyata, Y.; Takii, Y.
Masui. Japanese Journal of Anesthesiology 34(4): 489-492
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-4892 PMID: 4021097 Document Number: 247338
In 11 patients with brain death, cardiovascular parameters were measured until cardiac arrest. After withdrawal of vasopressor a marked fall in cardiac output, systemic vascular resistance, heart rate and also arterial pressure were measured. A marked decrease in oxygen delivery and fall in AP established the vicious circle and circulatory death will ensue. Most pronounced changes were left heart dysfunction and a fall in systemic vascular resistance. Depression of the right heart was a half of that of the left side, and pulmonary circulation and blood volume were well maintained until death. These patients can maintain their body temperature well and organs except for the brain are functioning well in brain death patients. For the resuscitation of apparently dead patients heart functions and also systemic vascular functions must be maintained.