The effect of indomethacin on liver blood flow and oxygen supply-uptake relationship in the dog.

The effects of indomethacin on liver blood flow and oxygen supply-uptake relationship were investigated using a right heart bypass technique. Portal venous blood flow was decreased by the mesenteric vascular effects of indomethacin, which produce intense mesenteric vasoconstriction. Hepatic arterial blood flow was increased and therefore, total liver blood flow was not significantly changed after indomethacin administration. Portal venous oxygen delivery was significantly decreased by reductions in both portal venous blood flow and portal venous oxygen content. Total liver oxygen delivery, however, was not changed after indomethacin administration. This response was caused by a large increase in hepatic arterial oxygen delivery. Liver oxygen uptake and liver oxygen extraction ratio were not changed after indomethacin administration. We conclude, therefore, that total liver blood flow and oxygen delivery were well maintained, even if the mesenteric vascular effects of indomethacin decreased both portal venous blood flow and portal venous oxygen delivery.