The protective effect of sodium valproate on rats with severe scald combined with seawater immersion

INTRODUCTION: Early application of sodium valproate has a certain protective effect on important organ functions. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of sodium valproate on rats with severe thermal injury combined with seawater immersion followed by delayed intravenous infusion. METHODS: Rats were divided into three groups: scald (S) group, scald with seawater immersion (SS) group, and scald with seawater immersion treated with sodium valproate (SSV) group. All rats received a 35% of total body surface area full-thickness scald and delayed rehydration 2 h after injury. SS and SSV groups were immersed in artificial seawater (23 ℃, 30 min) immediately after scalding, and the SSV group was subcutaneously injected with sodium valproate (300 mg/kg) after seawater immersion. Physiological parameters, organ functions, blood flow, and histological changes in abdominal organs were assessed. RESULTS: The 24-h survival rate was significantly lower in the SS group (55%) compared to the S (90%) and SSV (75%) groups. Sodium valproate treatment in the SSV group significantly improved physiological indicators, organ functions, and abdominal organ blood flow compared to the SS group. Pathological damage, especially to the heart, brain, liver, kidney, and intestine, was reduced in the SSV group. CONCLUSION: Early administration of sodium valproate during delayed resuscitation following severe scald and seawater immersion improves the 24-h survival rate, hemodynamics, and organ function.