Hemodynamics and oxygen transport dynamics during hepatic resection at different central venous pressures in a pig model

Background Although low central venous pressure (CVP) has been used to minimize blood loss during hepatectomy, the impact of variations of CVP on the rate of blood loss and on the perfusion of end-organs has not been evaluated. This animal study aimed to evaluate the hemodynamics and oxygen transport changes during hepatic resection at different CVP levels. Methods Forty-eight anesthetized Bama miniature pigs were divided into 8 groups with CVP during hepatic resection controlled at 0 to 2 O. Intergroup comparisons were made for hemodynamic parameters, oxygen transport dynamics, and the rate of blood loss. Results The rate of blood loss and the hepatic venous pressure during hepatic resection were almost linearly related to the CVP. A significant drop in the mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, and cardiac index occurred between CVP ≥2 and 2 O. Oxygen delivery (DO 2 ), oxygen consumption (VO 2 ) and oxygen extraction ratio (ERO 2 ) remained relatively constant between CVPs of 2 to 2 O. There was a significant drop in DO 2 when the CVP was 2 O. There was also a significant drop in VO 2 and ExO 2 when the CVP was 2 O. Conclusion The optimal CVP for hepatic resection is 2 to 3 cmH 2 O.