Cerebral venous system mechanics during a constant infusion in subarachanoid space: a model study

Abstract

A model has been developed to explain the development of stress under a constant infusion of fluid into the subarachanoid space. When the regulatory mechanism operates, the infused fluid is accommodated by the venous system and hence the tissue ‘give’ mechanism is under minimal stress. The necessity of maintaining a constant blood flow causes the blood vessel to dilate at higher CSF pressures. This puts the tissue ‘give’ mechanism under dual pressures, since it has to make room for the expanding ventricle as well as the dilating venous system. The theoretical model developed has been validated by experimental observations. [Neurol Res 1992; 4: 000-000]