Small-Volume Resuscitation from Hemorrhagic Shock by Hypertonic Saline Dextran – Conceptional Basis and Historical Background

Surgical Research - A Discipline at the Interface of the Basic Sciences and the Clinic. Festschrift Dedicated to Konrad Meßmer on the Occasion of his 65th Birthday. Editors: A. Baethmann, Munich; G. Enders, Munich; F. Krombach, Munich; N. Plesnila, Munich Early and adequate fluid resuscitation is essential for the survival of the severely hypovolemic trauma patient. Studies have shown that, besides age, severity of injury and arterial hypotension, the duration of shock is the most important factor influencing the recovery from multiple trauma [1]. While for optimal resuscitation rapid restoration of blood volume is essential, the lack of compatible blood or blood components for infusion at the accident site has directed therapy towards the use of blood substitutes. The controversy regarding the relative merits of crystalloids and colloids for primary volume therapy has been exacerbated by conflicting results and, recently, by cost considerations. The increasing involvement of paramedics in the primary care of accident and emergency cases has highlighted the requirements for the 'ideal' solution for primary resuscitation. These are efficacy, practicability and safety. Copyright © 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]