shock induction and treatment of hemodynamic instability in a porcine model using lps infusion and picco monitoring

Dosage-Dependent Induction of Endotoxemia in Pigs via LPS Infusion

Sepsis and septic shock rank among the leading causes of mortality in patients receiving intensive care treatment1,2,3. Sepsis arises when an infection triggers a dysregulated immune response resulting in multiorgan failure. It is characterized by life-threatening symptoms, including hemodynamic instability, respiratory distress, hepatic and renal failure, as well as cognitive impairment4,5. Septic shock represents a subset of sepsis with particularly severe symptoms that significantly increase mortality. These symptoms include persistent hypotension requiring vasopressor therapy and a serum lactate level exceeding 2 mmol&#8729;L-1&#160;4,5. Mortality rates in patients with septic shock have been estimated as high as 40%, even with hospital treatment1,3,5.
Gram-negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas and Escherichia coli, often cause infections triggering this dysregulated immune response4. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are complex and not yet fully understood. One well-described aspect involves the activation of Toll-like receptors on immune cells by pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), leading to the release of cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF&#945;) or Interleukin 1 (IL 1)4. One of these PAMPs is lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which constitutes a component of the cell membrane in gram-negative bacteria6. LPS has been employed in animal models to induce endotoxemia and endotoxemic shock7,8.
Animal models provide a controlled and standardized setting to develop and investigate novel treatment strategies. Due to its similar anatomy, immunological physiology, and comparable hemodynamic parameters, the pig model is particularly well-suited for studying the effects of endotoxemic shock9,10. Furthermore, standard medical equipment commonly used in human patients can be readily applied in pigs due to the similar size of their airways and blood vessels, facilitating instrumentation and hemodynamic monitoring.
With this protocol, we provide an experimental model for endotoxemic shock in pigs by intravenously infusing LPS derived from E. coli. To monitor the effects, we measured hemodynamic and pulmonary parameters, including arterial blood pressure, heart rate, peripheral oxygen saturation, pulmonary arterial pressure, and airway pressure. To evaluate the influence of endotoxemia on cerebral oxygen supply, we used near-infrared spectrometry (NIRS). With this method, the cerebral oxygen saturation can be evaluated via an adhesive electrode applied to the forehead11.

Author Spotlight: Induction of Experimental Endotoxemic Shock in Pigs for Studying Hemodynamic and Respiratory Failure

Lipopolysaccharide Infusion as a Porcine Endotoxemic Shock Model

With this protocol, we induce experimental endotoxemic shock in pigs. We were able to reliably cause symptoms of endotoxemia, such as hemodynamic instability and respiratory failure. Lipopolysaccharide is a toxic substance.When working with lipopolysaccharide, it is essential always to wear gloves, protective goggles, a mask, and a lab coat. This protocol provides an easy and reliable way to induce endotoxemia. Because of their similar anatomy and physiology, pigs are particularly well-suited for this kind of research as standard medical equipment may be used.Using this protocol, we will be able to study the effects of different ventilation strategies in respiratory failure and lung damage during endotoxemic shock.

Shock Induction and Treatment of Hemodynamic Instability in a Porcine Model Using LPS Infusion and PiCCO Monitoring

After inserting the Swan-Ganz catheter into the pulmonary artery, allow the anesthetized pig to stabilize for 30 minutes. Then obtain the baseline hemodynamic measurements. Administer 150 micrograms per kilogram of lipopolysaccharide or LPS for 30 minutes.Monitor the hemodynamic parameters such as arterial and pulmonary arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and ventilation. Then monitor the hemodynamic parameters at an LPS infusion rate of 15 micrograms per kilogram per hour. On the PiCCO monitor, press the thermodilution button, then press the button for central venous pressure or CVP input, and enter the current CVP value before pressing the Start button.When prompted, inject 10 milliliters of cold saline solution into the injectate temperature sensor connected to the Swan-Ganz catheter. After measuring cardiac index, global end-diastolic index, and extravascular lung water index, apply hemodynamic instability treatment according to the flow chart. In case of volume loading, rapidly infuses 200 milliliters of balanced electrolyte solution.For catecholamine therapy, increase the norepinephrine infusion rate by one microgram per kilogram per hour. Mean arterial blood pressure decreased following LPS infusion, but was maintained above 60 millimeters of mercury through fluid resuscitation or norepinephrine infusion. The animals demonstrated a decrease in cardiac index and an increase in heart rate, indicating hemodynamic instability during the shock state.Lung damage was indicated by a decrease in the partial pressure of oxygen and the arterial blood inspiratory oxygen fraction ratio, and an increase in pulmonary artery pressure. Cerebral oxygenation also decreased following the induction of shock. The animals also exhibited acidosis and increasing lactate levels.

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

Sepsis and septic shock are frequently encountered in patients treated in intensive care units (ICUs) and are among the leading causes of death in these ...