USE OF THAM AND SODIUM BICARBONATE IN CORRECTING ACIDOSIS IN ASPHYXIATED NEWBORNS

In experiments on rabbits, the influence of buffering substances in acid-base balance and respiration was measured using spirometry and continuous measurement of arterial pH. A sequential therapy of the acidosis of the asphyxiated newborn is suggested. An initial injection via the umbilical vein of THAM in a maximum dose of 7 mmole is given. As soon as spontaneous or artificial respiration is established, treatment of the acidosis is continued with sodium bicarbonate. Such sequential therapy aims to correct the acidosis rapidly, without increasing the hypercapnia and intracellular acidosis, while avoiding the side-effects caused by THAM.