Comparison of effects of dexmedetomidine and propofol on intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Abstract

Objective To compare the effects of dexmedetomidine and propofol on intestinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. Methods Forty male SPF Wistar rats, aged 2-3 months, weighing 185-230 g, were randomized into 4 groups (n=10 each) using a random number table: sham operation group (S group), intestinal I/R group (I/R group), propofol group (P group) and dexmedetomidine group (D group). Intestinal I/R was produced by occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery for 20 min followed by reperfusion.In P and D groups, propofol 10 mg/kg and dexmedetomidine 5 μg/kg were injected, respectively, via the femoral vein at 20 min before occlusion.At the end of 2 h reperfusion, the blood samples were collected from the inferior vena cava for determination of serum diamine oxidase (DAO) activity.A segment of the intestine of 5 cm in length was removed for microscopic examination with light microscope.The degree of damage to intestinal mucous membrane was scored according to Chiu. Results Compared to S group, the activity of DAO and Chiu's score were significantly increased in I/R, P and D groups.Compared to I/R group, the activity of DAO and Chiu's score were significantly decreased in P and D groups.Compared to P group, the activity of DAO and Chiu's score were significantly decreased in group D. Conclusion Anesthetic dose of dexmedetomidine pretreatment reduces intestinal I/R injury in rats, and the effect is superior to that produced by propofol. Key words: Dexmedetomidine; Propofol; Reperfusion injury; Intestines