A novel method of peritoneal resuscitation improves organ perfusion after hemorrhagic shock

Background After resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock, intestinal microvessels constrict leading to impairment of blood flow. This occurs despite restoration and maintenance of central hemodynamics. Our recent studies have demonstrated that topical and continuous exposure of the gut microvasculature to a clinical solution (Delflex; Fresenius Medical Care), as a technique of direct peritoneal resuscitation (DPR), reverses the postresuscitation vasoconstriction and hypoperfusion to a sustained dilation and hyperperfusion. We hypothesize that initiation of DPR simultaneously with resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock enhance organ blood flow to all tissues surrounding the peritoneal cavity as well as distant organs. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized, intubated and cannulated for monitoring of hemodynamics and for withdrawal of blood. Rats were hemorrhaged to 50% of mean blood pressure for 60 minutes prior to resuscitation with shed blood plus 2 volumes of saline. Animals were randomized for intraperitoneal therapy with 30 mL saline (group 1, N = 9), or Delflex (group 2, N = 9). Whole organ blood flow was measured by colorimetric microsphere technique with phantom organ at baseline, after completion of resuscitation, and at 120 minutes postresuscitation. Replenishment of the dwelling intraperitoneal saline or Delflex was performed in (group 3, N = 8), and (group 4, N = 8), respectively at 90 minutes postresuscitation, and a single whole organ blood flow was performed at 120 minutes postresuscitation. Results Direct peritoneal resuscitation caused a significant increase in blood flow to the jejunum (35%), ileum (33%), spleen (48%), and pancreas (57%), whereas a marked increase in blood flow was detected in the lung (111%), psoas major muscle (115%), and diaphragm (132%), as compared with the saline treated animals in group 1. At 120 minutes postresuscitation, organ blood flow returned to the prehemorrhagic shock baseline level in all organs irrespective of peritoneal therapy. Replenishment of the intraperitoneal solution in group 3 and 4, enhanced blood flow to the liver, kidneys, and diaphragm. Conclusions Direct peritoneal resuscitation enhanced blood flow to organs incited in the pathogenesis of multiple organ failure that follows hemorrhagic shock.