Pediatric research
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Hemorrhagic shock is a common cause of mortality and morbidity in the pediatric population. Intrathoracic pressure regulation (IPR) lowers intrathoracic pressure, thereby decreasing intracranial pressure and increasing venous return, cardiac output, and cerebral perfusion without the need for immediate fluid resuscitation. We hypothesized that IPR would improve hemodynamics and 24-h survival in a pediatric porcine model of hemorrhagic shock. ⋯ Mean CI (L/min/m²) was significantly higher with IPR (3.9 ± 0.24) versus controls (2.5 ± 0.39, p < 0.01). IPR survival rates were significantly improved with IPR [9/9 (IPR) versus 5/11 (controls); p < 0.02]. In this piglet model of hemorrhagic shock, IPR treatment safely and significantly improved MAP, CI, and 24-h survival rates.