The coronary circulation is being researched in both healthy and pathological conditions. They conduct blood flow and pressure measurements (blue circle) in one of the epicardial coronary arteries of a laboratory animal model with heart function that is comparable to humans. After simulating a 60% atherosclerotic stenosis in the artery with a clamp, the flow and pressure distal to the lesion are once again measured. After reaching steady state, which of the following modifications is most likely to be seen?

Question

The coronary circulation is being researched in both healthy and pathological conditions. They conduct blood flow and pressure measurements (blue circle) in one of the epicardial coronary arteries of a laboratory animal model with heart function that is comparable to humans. After simulating a 60% atherosclerotic stenosis in the artery with a clamp, the flow and pressure distal to the lesion are once again measured. After reaching steady state, which of the following modifications is most likely to be seen?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Blood flow initially declines as perfusion pressure drops distally to a substantial coronary artery stenosis. In order to restore blood flow to almost normal levels and prevent myocardial ischemia, coronary autoregulation induces arteriolar vasodilation, which lowers downstream vascular resistance.

The Coronary Circulation Is Being Researched in Both Healthy and Pathological