A growing body of research has identified the endothelial glycocalyx layer (EGL) and endothelium as a dynamic interface of blood-tissue connectivity within the body. Despite significant trials examining the effect of macrovascular optimisation, there is limited research investigating ways to assess and optimise microvascular function in the perioperative period.
The aim of the project is to assess the effects of intraoperative steroid (dexamethasone) and albumin vs balanced crystalloid solution in attenuating the inflammatory response to major abdominal surgery by measuring blood and urine biochemical markers of endothelial dysfunction and glycocalyx breakdown - Syndecan-1 and Heparan Sulphate. These exploratory findings will be critical in designing and powering a larger clinical outcome study that will evaluate if the same invention can minimise perioperative complications (acute kidney injury, major adverse cardiac events, postoperative respiratory complications, surgical site infection etc) and reduce length of hospital stay after major abdominal surgery.
Professor Laurence Weinberg, Austin Hospital
Dr Shervin Tosif, Austin Hospital
Dr Ken Yee, Waikato District Health Board
The project was awarded $50,253 funding through the ANZCA research grants program for 2020.
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