Microcirculatory changes during haemorrhagic shock in relation to shock and subsequent inflammatory responses

The cardiovascular response to trauma (tissue injury, haemorrhagic shock and resuscitation) leads to inflammatory responses that can either cause further damage or underpin subsequent tissue healing. A novel element of the inflammatory response is the interaction between platelets and neutrophils, which have been examined in a collaborative pilot study with King's College, who have expertise in neutrophil-platelet interactions. The inflammatory response in trauma is in part orchestrated by the microcirculation. There is considerable inter-individual variation in the microcirculatory response to trauma. A detailed assessment of these responses, followed by correlation with the systemic physiological and inflammatory responses, may identify mechanisms of response and potential therapeutic directions to modify the inflammatory response and augment the potential for healing.