ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION The efficient functioning of the central nervous system (CNS) relies on an uninterrupted supply of oxygenated blood and nutrients, particularly glucose. The transportation of these fuels requires sufficient blood flow through a healthy cerebral vasculature with the capacity to respond appropriately to metabolic demands. If the oxygen or glucose content or the flow of blood falls below the level needed to maintain nervous tissue viability, this precipitates a series of acute and longer term changes within the brain parenchyma. The removal of metabolic wastes such as lactate by venous drainage also plays an important role in cerebral function.
