INTRINSIC CONTRACTILITY OF LEG LYMPHATICS IN MAN. PRELIMINARY COMMUNICATION

Abstract

Intralymphatic pressures were measured in subcutaneous
trunks of 5 randomly selected healthy individuals.
Rhythmic pulse waves of different frequency,
amplitude of 1- 33 mmHg, duration of 6-8 sec
and steadily increasing mean pressure up to 50 - 120
mmHg were found, with subjects in the upright position
and motionless. Coincidence of the rhythm
of pulse waves with the rhythm of expression of
drops of lymph from the cannula strongly suggests
that pressures necessary to propel lymph were generated
by the contractility of lymph vessel wall.