Dependence of spatial heterogeneity of myocardial blood flow on mean blood flow rate in the rabbit heart

Summary: The relationship between spatial heterogenity of myocardial blood flow and the rate of perfusion was examined in anaesthetised open-chest rabbits. Blood flow determinations employed the radioactive microsphere technique. Five tissue samples were obtained from each of four regions of the left ventricle: left septum, right septum, subendocardium and subepicardium. Standard deviation (SD) and the coefficient of variation (CV = SD/mean flow x 100), an index of spatial heterogeneity, were computed. A wide range of mean coronary flows was obtained in seven groups by inspiration of room air, 8% O₂, 8% O₂ and 10% CO₂, 100% O₂, 100% O₂ and hyperventilation, and by administration of adenosine or chromomar HC1. Significant differences in CV were found between treatment groups at the upper and lower ends of the flow range. A significant positive linear correlation between overall SD and mean coronary flow was found (r = 0.760). A significant inverse linear relationship between CV and mean flow was found over the entire range of flows studied (r = -0.482). An improved correlation between CV of calculated coronary vascular resistance and mean vascular resistance (r = 0.742) amongst these treatments suggests that spatial heterogeneity is better described by the variability in calibre of large arterioles. This decreased heterogeneity accompanying high flows or reduced vascular resistance may be beneficial in terms of O₂ supply and demand under conditions of myocardial stress.