[Intensity of lipid peroxidation in the small intestinal wall in peritonitis and its correction]

Experiments were conducted on albino rats to study lipid peroxidation (LPO) in muscle homogenates of the small intestine in peritonitis of various duration. LPO increased most significantly in 24-hour peritonitis. There was no statistically significant difference between the LPO values two days later and those of 24-hour peritonitis. With the use of the antioxidant alpha-tocopherol with essential 12 hours after the development of peritonitis no significant changes occurred in the LPO values. In 24-hour peritonitis LPO was initiated but it was less pronounced. alpha-Tocopherol acetate and essential were included in the complex of therapeutic measures in 20 patients. They were administered before and 3-4 days after the operation. As a result the motor-evacuation function of the gastrointestinal tract was restored in a shorter time. The postoperative period took a favorable course, and the duration of in-hospital treatment reduced by 2-3 days on the average.