Partial aortic occlusion devices and methods for cerebral perfusion augmentation

A method for increasing cerebral blood flow is described. A catheter is inserted into the descending aorta, the catheter having a proximal region, a distal region, and at least one expandable member mounted on the distal region. The expandable member is positioned downstream from the takeoff of the brachiocephalic artery. The expandable member is expanded to at least partially obstruct blood flow in the aorta. The expandable member is then cycled between greater and lesser obstruction of blood flow. In this manner, renal ischemia and lower limb ischemia is avoided.