Effect of Constriction of the Abdominal Aorta on Femoral Pulse and Mean Pressure in Rabbits

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Abstract
The aortas of 14 rabbits were constricted down to cross-sectional areas ranging from 2.3 to 7.5 mm2. The stricture was induced just above the superior mesenteric artery by means of a Goldblatt clamp or cotton-thread loop. Changes in blood pressure and pulse contour were studied at times varying from 2-35 weeks after constriction, and in some rabbits over a period of several months. 17 normal rabbits served as controls. For the recordings ether was administered and the carotid and femoral arteries exposed. All 14 rabbits with aortic constriction developed hypertension above the constriction. In constricted animals femoral systolic pressure was below that of the carotid. 7 rabbits displayed very damped femoral pulse pressures which ranged from 2 to 10 mm. Hg. 6 animals displayed much less damped femoral pulse waves with pulse pressures of 20 to 30 mm. Hg. Controls had femoral pulse pressures ranging from 20 to 40 mm. Hg. Those rabbits which displayed very low femoral pulse pressure had mean femoral pressure within the normal range (58-98 mm. Hg). On the other hand, those rabbits with only moderately damped femoral pulse waves had mean femoral pressures from 102 to 132 mm. Hg, being hypertensive below as well as above the constriction.