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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
The Rabbit Blood-shunt Model for the Study of Acute and Late Sequelae of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Technical Aspects
Published on: October 2, 2014
A comprehensive overview of fixed-volume hemorrhage effects in New Zealand White rabbit models
Dwi Utari Rahmiati1,2, Gunanti Gunanti2, Deni Noviana2
1Postgraduate student of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences Study Program, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Dramaga, Indonesia.
Background:
Hemorrhagic shock is a life-threatening condition resulting from acute blood loss, leading to compromised tissue perfusion and organ dysfunction. Currently, the guidelines for categorizing and managing hemorrhagic shock in pets are based on protocols developed for humans.
Aim:
This study employed New Zealand White rabbits as an animal model to systematically evaluate the physiological and biochemical responses to fixed-volume hemorrhage, aiming to establish its role in inducing shock and significant physiological alterations.
Methods:
A total of 21 New Zealand White rabbits, weighing 2-3 kg, were subjected to controlled hemorrhage by withdrawing 30%-35% of their total blood volume via the auricular artery using a 24-G IV catheter over 15 minutes. Parameters were assessed at baseline and 45 minutes post-induction.
Results:
Hemorrhage induced significant increases in heart rate and respiratory rate, reflecting compensatory mechanisms to maintain perfusion during shock. The mean arterial pressure and blood pressure significantly declined, consistent with hemorrhagic shock. Oxygen saturation initially decreased but partially recovered over time. All hematological variables decreased. Coagulopathy was indicated by prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time. Elevated lactate levels indicate a shift to anaerobic metabolism due to hypoxia. The increased levels of interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha suggested an adaptive anti-inflammatory response to mitigate excessive inflammation.
Conclusion:
Fixed-volume hemorrhage in New Zealand White rabbits induces the physiological changes characteristic of hemorrhagic shock, providing valuable insights into the pathophysiological response to acute blood loss.
