THE SURVIVAL OF DOGS TREATED WITH NEOSYNEPHRIN DURING THE PRODUCTION OF HEMORRHAGIC SHOCK

Abstract

12 dogs were subjected to hemorrhagic shock by controlled bleeding. Neosynephrin was infused during the severely hypotensive period (30 mm.) at a rate which maintained the level of blood pressure between 50 and 75 mm. At the end of the infusion period (34-45 min.) the dogs were reinfused with their own blood and the subsequent course of events observed. 8 of the dogs died in shock and 1 recovered from this treatment, while 3 dogs died of cardiac failure during the infusion of neosynephrin. The avg. survival time of the dogs dying in shock was 13.4 hrs. as compared to 5.3 hrs. in a control series. Any increase in peripheral damage due to an augmented vasoconstriction is compensated for by an increased flow of blood through the vital centers resulting in an increased survival time, but no permanent improvement. However, the use of pressor drugs during severe hypotension seems to be contra-indicated because of the direct or indirect damage to the myocardium which may result from their use. The beneficial result of the use of pressor drugs in the treatment of shock is questionable from a therapeutic standpoint.