Effects of Sedatives on Sublingual Microcirculation of Patients With Septic Shock

Effects of Sedatives on Sublingual Microcirculation of Patients With Septic Shock

Previous studies have demonstrated that altered microvascular blood flow is an important marker of severe sepsis. Usually, these patients need invasive ventilatory support, frequent use of sedatives and it is unknown if these agents interfere or not on microvascular blood flow. The goal of this study was to compare effects of propofol and midazolam infusions on sublingual microcirculation of septic shock patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Septic shock patients needing mechanical ventilation in pressure or volume-controlled mode.

Exclusion Criteria:

• age less than 18 years,
• pregnancy,
• non-sinus rhythm, and
• contraindication of daily interruption of sedative drug,
• mainly with the use of neuromuscular blocking drugs, or
• patients with intracranial hypertension or epileptical status.