Do the Methods Justify the Conclusion?: Dopexamine and Splanchnic Blood Flow

Abstract

In a recent article in the journal, Maynard et al (CHEST 1995; 108:1648-54) describe the effects of dopexamine and dopamine on gastric intramucosal pH, monoethylglycinexylidide formation from lidocaine, and indocyanine green clearances in mechanically ventilated critically ill patients. The authors conclude that low-dose dopexamine increases splanchnic blood flow as measured by gastric intramucosal pH, monoethylglycinexylidide formation from lidocaine, and indocyanine green clearances. This conclusion was based on data as obtained from three comparable groups of patients: a group treated with dopamine (n=10), a group with dopexamine (n=10), and 1 control group treated with saline solution (n=5).