Aortic input impedance during hypovolemic shock and after hyperosmotic solution infusion.

Aortic input impedance (Zin) was determined in 7 chloralose-urethane-anesthetized dogs. Flow and pressure were recorded in the ascending aorta during random cardiac pacing. These signals were processed on a spectrum analyzer utilizing the Fast Fourier Transform. Measurements were made 1) under control conditions; 2) every 5 min throughout 1 hr of hypovolemic shock; 3) every 5 min for 30 min after ending infusion of hyperosmotic solution (7.5% NaCl, 4.5 ml/kg body weight). We conclude that the determination of characteristic impedance (Zc) (average value of Zin from 4 to 10 Hz) can be useful for determining the initial phase of vascular decompensation in hypovolemic shock. After hyperosmotic solution infusion we observed a reduction in peripheral resistance, Zin, Zc, frequency of minimal Zin and frequency of phase crossover. These data strongly suggest a decrease in arterial vascular tonus.