title: Dynamics of myocardial infarction--the role of critical closing pressure.
abstract: Pressure in the primary distributing network of a vessel on the surface of the heart is normally sufficient to prevent critical closure of its derivative vessels. It is proposed that acute occlusion of a major supply vessel or over activity of the heart in the presence of an impairment of the lumen of a major supply vessel may reduce transmural pressure in parts of the network. In consequence vasospasm, the result directly of critical closure, is postulated as the basis for myocardial infarction, together with maximal dilatation of vessels in which pressure did not fall to critical levels.
mesh_terms: D003326:Coronary Circulation; D003327:Coronary Disease; D003331:Coronary Vessels / Q000503:physiopathology; D008833:Microcirculation; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D011312:Pressure; D014666:Vasomotor System / Q000503:physiopathology