Increased Hematocrit Due to Electrical-Waveform Exposures in Splenectomized Sus scrofa

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Forensic Science
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Hematocrit increases have been observed in pigs post-conducted-electrical-weapon (CEW) exposure.
• The spleen's role in this hematological response is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of splenectomy on hematological changes following CEW waveform exposure.
• To determine if spleen contraction contributes to hematocrit elevation after CEW exposure.

Main Methods:

• Laboratory pigs (Sus scrofa) were divided into splenectomized and intact sham control groups.
• Both groups were exposed to a standardized electrical waveform for 30 seconds.
• Hematological parameters including hematocrit, red blood cell count, and hemoglobin were statistically analyzed over time.

Main Results:

• Hematocrit significantly increased in both splenectomized and sham animals post-exposure.
• No significant main-effect differences in hematocrit were found between the groups.
• Splenectomized animals exhibited slower return to baseline for hematocrit, red blood cell count, and hemoglobin compared to sham animals.

Conclusions:

• The spleen plays a role in the recovery phase of hematological changes after CEW exposure.
• Spleen contraction may contribute to acute hematocrit increases, but the spleen's absence affects the rate of blood parameter normalization.
• Findings suggest the spleen sequesters red blood cells, influencing circulation dynamics post-electrical exposure.