Abstract
The production of water intoxication in human beings is difficult. However, instances of such intoxication have been reported,1-4 and it has been the subject of experimental investigation in lower animals. 5 , 6 , 7 Recent studies 8 , 9 upon the metabolic effects of water have suggested that a definite relationship exists between the initial metabolic rate and the rise in metabolism induced by water. Following hemorrhage, there is a marked diminution in the metabolic response to water and electrolytes. 10 This study has been undertaken to determine whether or not there is an altered susceptibility to water intoxication in animals subjected to experimental traumatic shock.
Healthy dogs weighing between 6-19 kg. were used. Anesthesia was induced by sodium barbital in a dosage of 250 mg. per kilo of body weight. Blood pressure tracings were made in the usual manner before and during the administration of fluid. The metabolic readings were obtained by a Krogh apparatus before, and at 15-minute intervals after, the production of shock. Shock was produced by: 1. massive hemorrhage to the extent of 1/3 of the calculated blood volume. 2. crushing of the muscles of the hind legs or by prolonged handling of the exposed bowel. 3. ligation of the portal vein. 4. injection of histamine dihydrochloride. The fluid utilized was an isotonic (0.9%) sodium chloride solution heated to 38°C., and given by vein at a constant rate of 16 cc. per minute. The standard amount of solution was 3,000 cc. Ten of the animals were used as controls. The urine output was estimated by a catheter placed in the emptied urinary bladder.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.