Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026
09:09
A Murine Model of Cervical Spinal Cord Injury to Study Post-lesional Respiratory Neuroplasticity
Published on: May 28, 2014
14.1K
Cervical spinal cord injury exacerbates ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction
Ashley J Smuder1, Elisa J Gonzalez-Rothi2, Oh Sung Kwon3
1Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; and asmuder@ufl.edu.
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|October 17, 2015
Summary
Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) combined with mechanical ventilation (MV) worsens diaphragm dysfunction. Antioxidant therapy using Trolox can protect diaphragm function in SCI patients requiring MV.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pulmonology
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) impairs diaphragm function, often requiring mechanical ventilation (MV).
- Prolonged MV can cause ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction (VIDD), characterized by atrophy and impaired function.
- SCI may exacerbate VIDD due to pre-existing diaphragm atrophy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test if acute cervical SCI exacerbates VIDD and proteolytic activation in the diaphragm.
- To determine if antioxidant therapy can mitigate diaphragm dysfunction following cervical SCI and MV.
Main Methods:
- Rats with C2 cervical spinal hemisection injury underwent 12-hour mechanical ventilation.
- Diaphragm tissues were analyzed for functional and molecular changes.
- Antioxidant (Trolox) or saline treatment was administered to SCI rats before MV.
Main Results:
- The combination of SCI and MV significantly increased diaphragm atrophy, contractile dysfunction, and expression of atrophy-related genes (e.g., MuRF1) compared to either condition alone.
- Trolox administration attenuated proteolytic activation, fiber atrophy, and contractile dysfunction in SCI + MV animals.
Conclusions:
- Cervical SCI substantially worsens ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction.
- Antioxidant therapy with Trolox shows potential in preserving diaphragm function after acute SCI and mechanical ventilation.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Acute Respiratory Failure-III
1.1K
Hypercapnic respiratory failure, also known as Type 2 or ventilatory respiratory failure, is a severe condition characterized by the body's inability to effectively remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the bloodstream. It leads to an arterial CO2 pressure (PaCO2) exceeding 45 mmHg and a blood pH above 7.35. This situation indicates that the body's ventilatory demand, or the ventilation needed to maintain normal PaCO2 levels, surpasses its supply or the maximum gas flow achievable without...
1.1K
01:23Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
1.1K
Ventilators are essential medical equipment used to aid patients with respiratory difficulties. Their primary function is to assist or replace spontaneous breathing by providing mechanical ventilation. There are two general classes of mechanical ventilators: negative-pressure and positive-pressure ventilators.
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
1.1K
01:22Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
990
Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned...
990
01:23Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
828
Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (NIPPV), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) are essential methods in respiratory care. These ventilation techniques offer unique benefits for patients with various respiratory conditions, providing adequate support without requiring intubation. Let's explore how each method is crucial in improving patient outcomes and enhancing respiratory therapy.
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation...
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation...
828
01:23Acute Respiratory Failure-IV
713
Respiratory failure can manifest suddenly or gradually, characterized by a rapid decline in PaO2 and a rapid rise in PaCO2. This situation indicates a severe respiratory problem that may quickly become a life-threatening emergency. One of the early signs of hypoxemic Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF) is a change in mental status due to the brain's sensitivity to oxygen levels and changes in acid-base balance. Symptoms such as restlessness, confusion, and agitation suggest inadequate oxygen...
713
01:29Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
3.7K
Mechanical ventilation is a life-saving technique for managing acute respiratory failure and other respiratory complications. The process involves using a machine known as a ventilator to supply oxygen to the lungs and assist in removing carbon dioxide. It serves as a bridge to long-term mechanical ventilation or a temporary measure until ventilatory support is discontinued. The ventilator can maintain this function for a prolonged period, providing critical support for patients until they can...
3.7K