Effects of hypoxia on distribution of cardiac output and organ blood flow in the rabbit. Regional vascular response to hypoxia.

The hemodynamic responses of various vascular beds in the systemic circulation to prolonged moderate hypoxia were studied in the rabbit using the radioactive microsphere method. Although cardiac output remained unchanged, there was a redistribution of blood flow in which blood was mainly diverted from the kidneys to provide greater supply to heart, brain and skeletal muscle. These regional adjustments are similar to those seen after low cardiac output due to hemorrhage or endotoxic shock.