Abstract des Autors

This review article discussed the mechanism, efficacy, safety and ethical consequences of intentional induction of autonomic dysreflexia ('boosting') for performance enhancement by athletes with a lesion level above T6. 'Boosting' leads to a mass reflex sympathetic discharge, resulting in release of noradrenalin and vasoconstriction distal to the lesion level. 'Boosting' appears to be driven by catecholamine release. It seems to be a powerful stimulus for performance enhancement but it is often accompanied by dangerous elevations in blood pressure. With 'boosting', the risk of hyperthermia may be increased because of exaggerated vasoconstriction and elevated heat generation due to increased muscle work being performed. Because 'boosting' is life threatening and leads to an unfair competition, a 'boosting'-policy has to be developed. At this moment, little is known about 'boosting'. Therefore, further research is required. Verf.-Referat