Abstract
Conclusion
Trauma to the exposed intestines brings about a certain vasomotor response in the blood vessels of the periphery, and this response is a vaso-constriction. This change begins almost immediately that the intestines are disturbed and continues as long as the stimulation is applied.
This reflex vaso-constriction in the peripheral vessels is an important factor in maintaining the blood pressure in cases of gradually developing shock from intestinal trauma, overcoming the blood pressure lowering effect of the splanchnic dilatation. It is shown that whenever the intestinal irritation is not accompanied by vaso-constriction of the peripheral vessels, the blood pressure tends to fall. Whenever the vaso-constriction is present but slightly, the blood pressure shows itself to be better maintained. When the vaso-motor centers can bring about a marked vaso-constriction, the tendency towards the maintenance of the general blood pressure is greater, and in some cases there is actual raising of blood pressure.
Since there is no reason to suppose that the vaso-constrictor center is the variable factor in the difference of vaso-constrictor effect which was obtained, it is reasonable to assume that the results are to be explained by the variation of the normal degree of vaso-constriction present in the periphery at the inception of the experiment. If the vessels mere dilated, then reflex constriction could occur to a great extent and aid in the retention of normal blood pressure. If, on the other hand, the peripheral vessels were well constricted, further constriction from trauma would be impossible and the compensatory effect being absent, the blood pressure would fall.
In other words, the effect of intestinal trauma upon blood pressure is determined by the relative degree of constriction or dilatation which exists in the periphery at the inception of the procedure.
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