Developing the methodology of examining the lower limb veins in cosmonauts for the space medicine practice

Abstract

The article focuses on development of a methodology for evaluating the function of lower limb veins of cosmonauts in microgravity. The whys and wherefores of the choice of occlusive plethysmography equipment and procedure are explained. Much place is given to arguments for the body and limb positioning during venous plethysmography before and after space fight. To minimize the gravity effect on venous blood flow, the body should be in the level position, with the shin aligned with the hydrodynamically indifferent point. Determining the type of occlusion test, occlusion adjustments, venous parameters of interest, and data processing procedure constitute the methodology.