Artificial baroreflex system restores volume tolerance in the absence of native baroreflex.

The arterial baroreflex stabilizes arterial pressure by modulating the mechanical properties of cardiovascular system. We previously demonstrated that the baroreflex impairment makes the circulatory system extremely sensitive to volume overload and predisposes to pulmonary edema irrespective of left ventricular systolic function. To overcome the volume intolerance, we developed an artificial baroreflex system by directly stimulating the carotid sinus nerves in response to changes in arterial pressure. The artificial baroreflex system precisely reproduced the native arterial pressure response and restored physiological volume buffering function. We conclude that the artificial baroreflex system would be an attractive tool in preventing pulmonary edema in patients with impaired baroreflex function.