Effects of Vasopressin on Microcirculatory Blood Flow in the Gastrointestinal Tract in Anesthetized Pigs in Septic Shock

Abstract

Vasopressin decreased regional flow in the superior mesenteric artery and microcirculatory blood flow in the upper gastrointestinal tract. This reduction in flow and a concomitant increase in the jejunal mucosa-to-arterial carbon dioxide gap suggest compromised mucosal blood flow in the upper gastrointestinal tract in septic pigs receiving low-dose vasopressin.