Effect of pericoronary denervation on coronary hemodynamics

Abstract

In a series of 15 dogs, the procedure of pericoronary neurectomy resulted in a relative increase in coronary flow and decrease in oxygen extraction. This was best illustrated by a decrease in coefficient of oxygen extraction (A-V)OO2/AOO2 and was suggested by an increase in coronary flow/oxygen extraction ratio relative to oxygen consumption. It is concluded that at rest the net result of neurogenic impulses (both sympathetic and parasympathetic) is some degree of coronary vasoconstriction. Following denervation, this constrictor tonus is lost and there is a concomitant increase in coronary flow for a given myocardial oxygen consumption.