SummaryInfusion of lipid emulsion has been demonstrated to facilitate return of spontaneous circulation in animal models and human cases of local anaesthetic induced cardiac arrest. Guidelines for lipid application exist; however, experimental evidence of efficacy at recommended dosing is lacking. In 20 sedated, mechanically ventilated, and invasively monitored New Zealand White rabbits, asystole was induced via bolus bupivacaine injection. Animals were randomised to receive either 20% Intralipid administered according to Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland guidelines, or identical volumes of 0.9% saline solution, in addition to standard Advanced Cardiac Life Support resuscitative measures. Seven lipid treated rabbits developed return of spontaneous circulation vs four saline treated animals (p = 0.370). A trend toward sooner return of spontaneous circulation in the lipid treated group was observed (2.4 (0.53) vs 3.8 (1.7) min; p = 0.082). Five animals in the lipid treated group survived to protocol termination vs nil animals from the saline treated group (p = 0.033). The current Association of Anaesthestists of Great Britain and Ireland lipid infusion protocol provides a useful beginning for lipid emulsion administration.

Both intraoperative peak inspiratory pressure and FiO are independent factors significantly associated with development of a postoperative pulmonary complication in emergency laparotomy patients. Further studies are required to identify causality and to demonstrate if their manipulation could lead to better clinical outcomes.