[Experimental research on hemorrhagic shock in the rabbit. Acid-base equilibrium and survival with 6-methylprednisolone and gelatin administration].

A previously described method was used to induce haemorrhagic shock in the rabbit by removing 40% of the circulating mass. This had been previously established as 2.6 +/- 0.5 kg-1 by a radioisotopic technique. Survivals were determined 1 and 2 weeks later after treatment with 40 mg/kg-1 6-MPD and vascular refilling with 3.5% gelatine equal to the amount removed. The blood gas analysis and EAB findings suggested that haemorrhagic shock includes both a fast and a slow physiopathological stage, and that the results of treatment are strictly linked to the time of its commencement. Metabolic acidaemia and respiratory alkalosis was constant, and all the controls died within 2 days, 6-MPD was not able to normalise the EAB, but ensured 100% survival at 2 weeks. Gelatin brought the lab data close to normal, but only ensured 100% survival at 2 weeks if given immediately after the removal of blood.