Theoretical analysis of coronary flow regulation

The author presents a parameter which is related to cardiac oxygen reserve and demonstrates its usefulness in studying coronary autoregulation. In proposing this parameter, it is assumed that myocardial oxygen supply and consumption are equal under steady state condition. This assumption allows the use of the value of oxygen consumption as an estimate of oxygen supply. Coronary resistance to oxygen flow is defined and used to study the response of coronary autoregulation to changes in cardiac contractility and preload. Using this parameter, which indicates coronary reserve, the author was able to demonstrate an optimal contractility level for which coronary resistance to oxygen flow is maximal