Objective: to test the hypothesis that recombinant activated protein C (aPC) therapy improves the microcirculation of severe septic patients. Design: Prospective, open study. Setting: University 12-beds intensive care unit. Patients: Septic patients with at least two sepsis-induced organ failures occurring within 48 hours of the onset of sepsis were included in a one year period. Interventions: Patients who had no contraindication to aPC administration received aPC at a dose of 24 mcg/kg/h for 96 hours. Patients with contraindications to aPC infusion were considered as controls.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
22
University ICU, AOU Ospedali Riuniti Ancona
Torrette Di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
Microcirculatory Flow Index (MFI) before during and after aPC infusion
Microcirculatory Flow Index detected in vivo by side-dark field imaging at sublingual microcirculation. It represents the quality of blood flow at microcirculatory level. This study wants to verify any of the considered different types of blood transfused can improve MFI.
Time frame: 102 hours
Perfused Vessel Density before during and after aPC infusion
Perfused Vessel Density (PVD) detected in vivo by side-dark field imaging at sublingual microcirculation. It represents the quantity of well perfused vessels at microcirculatory level. This study wants to verify any of the considered different types of blood transfused can improve PVD.
Time frame: 102 hours
Tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) upslope before during and after aPC infusion
StO2 upslope is measured with Near InfraRed Spectroscopy at the tenar muscle. It represents the velocity of the recovery of the tissue oxygen saturation after a short period of ischemia of the hand, the Vascular Occlusion Test.
Time frame: 102 hours
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.