The use of the corpus cavernosum for the administration of phenobarbital: an experimental study in dogs

Status epilepticus (SE) is classically defined as a generalized tonic-clonic seizure lasting longer than 30 min. Prolonged seizure activity can be resulted in irreversible cerebral injury. In addition, the existence evidence suggests that the longer the duration of the seizure activity is less likely to be controlled. The intravenous (IV) access is frequently difficult during SE, especially in infants and neonates. On the other hand, it has been demonstrated that high volumes of fluid can be injected into the corpora cavernosa. In this study, phenobarbital (PB) was administered to dogs using both IV and intracavernous (IC) routes with a dose of 20 mg/kg. The time period required to establish the IC route was less than 5 s. The levels of PB in the blood were measured and all results were compared. There was no statistically significant difference between the IV and IC administration with regard of the blood PB levels. Within 48 h of the experiment, none of animals demonstrated any evidence of infection or disability. Our findings suggest that the IC route may be an alternative route for the administration of PB when venous access is not immediately available or if it is not possible to achieve.