Vagotomy and Submucosal Blood Flow: Effect in the Canine Stomach

Gastric blood flow was measured by the hydrogen tissue clearance method which permits repeated determinations of local perfusion rates in unanesthetized and unrestrained animals. Accordingly, basal flow rates were recorded both before and at various time intervals after total vagotomy. An immediate and significant reduction in blood flow was observed which was maintained for periods exceeding five weeks. A transitory episode of hyperemia was observed in the early postoperative period, and its significance is discussed.