Complement Activation Mediates Intestinal Injury after Resuscitation from Hemorrhagic Shock

Abstract

Histologic tissue injury, increased neutrophil influx, and impaired NOS activity after HEM/RES were all prevented by complement inhibition. Direct oxidant injury did not seem to be a major contributor to these alterations. Complement inhibition after HEM might ameliorate reperfusion injury in the small intestine by protecting the endothelial cell, reducing neutrophil influx and preserving NOS function.