The aim of this study was to explore the possible link between splanchnic circulatory changes and exhaled CH4 in an attempt to recognize intestinal perfusion failure. Methane (CH4) breath test is an established diagnostic method for gastrointestinal functional disorders.

In the first series, CH4 was administered intraluminally into the ileum before 45 minutes mesenteric ischemia or before reperfusion in non-CH4 producer rats to test the appearance of the gas in the exhaled air.

Macrohemodynamics were monitored continuously; RBC velocity of the ileal serosa or mucosa was recorded by intravital videomicroscopy. The concentration of exhaled CH4 was measured online simultaneously with high-sensitivity photoacoustic spectroscopy.

Breath CH4 analysis may offer a noninvasive approach to follow the status of the splanchnic circulation.

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