Cardiac Structure and Function in Septic Patients

Cardiovascular function is altered in sepsis though effects of infection including peripheral vasodilatation, and alterations to the endothelium and glycocalyx, and upon the myocardium. While international guidelines describe the importance of supportive treatment to prevent end-organ damage, the optimal balance of fluids and vasopressor support is unknown. This is particularly difficult in low income countries where access to intensive care facilities is poor. Adverse effects of bolus fluids on adults and children have been described in these circumstances. The CRISP project (Cardiovascular Reponses in Septic Patients) will examine the changes in macrovascular and microvascular circulation during the acute treatment of severe infection. Data collected by cutting edge echocardiographic techniques, and measurements of capillary perfusion will allow us to understand the hour-to-hour changes in this critical period of treatment. This PhD opportunity will examine the dynamics of stress within the right and left ventricular walls from baseline, and during intravenous fluid administration. It will assess the effect of both sepsis aetiology and pre-existing co-pathology to determine the potential for future personalised therapy, and improvement in patient safety.

The PhD is offered as a self-funded post only.

This is a 3-year project from a collaboration of Liverpool John Moores University and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. As such the supervisory team will consist of clinical experts in disease management and cardiac imaging from both institutes.

The successful candidate will be educated to Masters level in a relevant subject as well as demonstrating the appropriate IELTS score.