Arch Surg Chicago
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To determine the effects of pretreatment and posttreatment with pentoxifylline in a porcine model of gram-negative sepsis. ⋯ Pentoxifylline protects against pulmonary and systemic hemodynamic derangements in fulminant sepsis and protects against pulmonary dysfunction. Pentoxifylline has a "therapeutic window" when given in established sepsis; if administration is delayed until overt septic shock occurs, it may then have deleterious effects.
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Recent studies have shown that interleukin-6 (IL-6) is involved in the systemic changes that are associated with infection and tissue injury and that there is a correlation between high levels of IL-6 and poor outcome during several pathologic conditions. ⋯ Interleukin-6 appears to play a major role in both the intensity of translocation of E coli from the intestine following burn injury and the host's ability to kill translocated organisms. Improved outcome was associated with a reduction of IL-6 levels by anti-IL-6 antibody.
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To investigate colon anastomotic healing in an experimental model of sepsis. ⋯ Sepsis impairs healing of the colon, reflected by decreased bursting pressure and collagen concentration. The decrease in bowel wall structural collagen may affect the ability of the gut to hold sutures and thus may lead to more anastomotic failure.
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To clarify the pathophysiologic characteristics of hemorrhagic shock and to assess methods of resuscitation. ⋯ Cardiopulmonary support improves survival and preserves left ventricular function compared with volume resuscitation with or without inotropic support in this model of hemorrhagic shock.
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To determine if patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can tolerate thoracoscopic partial lung resection. ⋯ Patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can tolerate thoracoscopic partial lung resection but an effort should be made to reduce local recurrence.