Intraperitoneal tonometry for detection of regional enteric ischaemia

Background: The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that int raperitoneal tonometry can be a specific monitor for ischaemia in the small intestine. Methods: Twelve pigs were anaesthetized and mechanically ventilated. The ce liac artery (CA), the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and the inferior mes enteric artery (IMA) were identified. Tonometry catheters were positioned i ntraperitoneally at three different locations where blood supply varied. On e at a time of the mesenteric arteries was occluded, producing regional isc haemia in different splanchnic organs. Results: Regional PCO2 (Pr CO2) increased significantly in the intestinal r egion, in the small intestine, only during the SMA clamping. In the epigast ric region, i.e. in the space between the liver and the stomach, PrCO2 incr eased significantly only during CA clamping. Conclusion: Intraperitoneal tonometry in the intestinal region can be a spe cific monitor of ischaemia in the small intestine.