NEW MODEL FOR STUDY OF SEPTIC SHOCK

Abstract

Septic shock was produced in 28 healthy mongrel dogs by injecting 108 Escherichia coli/kg into the gallbladder following division of the cystic artery and duct. Based on the circulatory responses and the mortality, 2 distinct groups emerged. In one, the cardiac index decreased significantly and the total peripheral resistance was elevated. In the other, the cardiac index increased significantly and the total peripheral resistance was significantly lower. The average survival time in the former group was 3 days and, in the latter, 5 days. The physiopathology of this model is remarkably similar to that of human septic shock. Studies are planned to further describe this model to increase its utility in the study of septic shock.