Which physiological adaptation is observed during CPB to counteract inadequate splanchnic perfusion?

During cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), the body can experience inadequate perfusion of various organs, including the splanchnic circulation, which supplies blood to the gastrointestinal organs. To counteract this insufficient blood flow and maintain energy availability for vital organs, one physiological adaptation is increased glycogenolysis. This process involves the breakdown of glycogen stores into glucose, which can be readily utilized by tissues as a source of energy.

Increased glycogenolysis helps to ensure that the body maintains an adequate supply of glucose, particularly in the face of reduced perfusion to the splanchnic organs where nutrient absorption may be compromised. It supports metabolic demands and helps to maintain cellular function in conditions where blood flow is limited, which is critical during the stress of CPB.

The other options do not directly address the body’s need to counteract inadequate splanchnic perfusion in the same way. Decreased blood pressure could exacerbate perfusion problems rather than alleviate them. Peripheral vasoconstriction is a compensatory mechanism to redirect blood flow to vital organs, yet it may not specifically increase splanchnic perfusion. Increased vascular permeability, while important in other contexts, does not relate to enhancing perfusion and could lead to complications