Abstract
Introduction Management strategies for the prevention of secondary brain injury are based on maintaining the cerebral perfusion pressure. Anaesthetic and surgical interventions alter cerebrovascular physiology profoundly; hence, a good understanding of these changes is crucial to limit the damage following a brain injury. The brain is unique with a high metabolic rate, and its oxygen demand exceeds that of all organs except the heart. It is approximately 2% of body mass and receives 20% of the basal oxygen consumption and 15% of the resting cardiac output (700 ml min−1 in the adult). Mean resting cerebral blood flow (CBF) in young adults is about 50 ml (100 g brain tissue)−1 min−1. This mean value represents two very different categories of flow: 70 and 20 ml (100 g)−1 min−1 for grey and white matter, respectively. Regional CBF (rCBF) and glucose consumption decline with age, along with marked reductions in brain neurotransmitter content, and less consistent decreases in neurotransmitter binding.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Core Topics in Neuroanaesthesia and Neurointensive Care |
Publisher | Cambridge University Press |
Pages | 17-32 |
Number of pages | 16 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780511977558 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780521190572 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2011 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Medicine