Hemodynamic consequences of intravenously given E. coli suspension: observations in a fulminant sepsis model in pigs,...

The aim of the present work was to assess systemic hemodynamic changes using PiCCo monitoring in a porcine model of E. coli-induced fulminant sepsis.

Thirty-one healthy female Hungahib pigs were randomly assigned into control (n = 15) or septic groups (n = 16). In the sepsis group Escherichia coli culture was intravenously administrated in a continuously increasing manner according to the following protocol: 2 ml of bacterial culture suspended in physiological saline was injected in the first 30 min, then 4 ml of bacterial culture was administered within 30 min, followed by infusion of 32 ml bacterial culture for 2 h. Control animals received identical amount of saline infusion. Systemic hemodynamic parameters were assessed by PiCCo monitoring in both groups.

Resting hemodynamic parameters were identical in the two groups. In control animals, systemic hemodynamic variables were relatively stable during the entire procedure. In septic animals shock developed in 165 (IQR: 60-255) min after starting the injection of E. coli solution. Blood pressure values gradually decreased, whereas pulse rate increased. A decrease in cardiac index, an increased systemic vascular resistance, and a decreased stroke volume variation were observed.

These results may serve as additional pathophysiological information of hemodynamic changes occurring during hypodynamic sepsis and may contribute to a better understanding of the pathomechanism of septic multiple organ failure.