Goal Directed Therapy in Septic Shock - the Effects of Mean Arterial Pressure Levels, Adjusted With Norepinephrine, on Renal Perfusion, Function and Oxygenation.

It is under debate what level of mean arterial pressure is the most appropriate for organ perfusion in septic shock. The kidneys are usually used for end-organ evaluation of appropriate perfusion and appropriate blood pressure level. What "adequate blood pressure" means is today unclear.

The purpose of this study is to chart the renal perfusion, oxygenation and function, and moreover to evaluate renal effects of 3 different levels of mean arterial pressure, in early phase of septic shock.

Patients will be included within the first 24 hrs after admission to the ICU diagnosed with septic shock. The patients will be sedated, mechanically ventilated and in need for norepinephrine for adequate blood pressure levels.

After 60 mins of steady state at MAP 75 mmHg, norepinephrine will be adjusted achieve MAP of 60 and 90 mmHg respectively, MAP being held at each level for 30 mins. At the end of each 30 mins period, central and renal hemodynamics will be measured, blood and urine samples will be collected.

Central hemodynamics will be measured by, and blood samples collected via a pulmonary catheter and an arterial line.