CARDIOVASCULAR EXAMINATIONS AND OBSERVATIONS OF DECONDITIONING DURING THE SPACE-SHUTTLE ORBITAL FLIGHT TEST PROGRAM

  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 54  (11) , 1001-1004
Abstract
During the first 4 flights of the space shuttle, cardiovascular data were obtained on each crewmember as part of the operational medicine requirements for crew health and safety. From monitoring blood pressure and ECG data, it was possible to estimate the degree of deconditioning imposed by exposure to the microgravity environment. For this purpose, a quantitative cardiovascular index of deconditioning (CID) was derived to aid the clinician in his assessment. Isotonic saline was then investigted as a countermeasure against orthostatic intolerance and found to be effective in partially reversing the hemodynamic consequences. Apparently, the space flight environment of reentry might potentially be arrhythmogenic in at least 1 individual.

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