EVALUATION OF A HYPERTONIC SALINE-DEXTRAN SOLUTION FOR TREATMENT OF DOGS WITH SHOCK-INDUCED BY GASTRIC DILATATION-VOLVULUS

Objective-To test the hypothesis that small volumes of hypertonic sali ne-dextran (HSD) solution can be used to effectively resuscitate dogs in shock induced by gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), and, compared w ith administration of large volumes of lactated Ringer's solution (IRS ), can be used to limit the overall volume of fluid needed for resusci tation. Design-Prospective, clinical study, Animals-15 dogs with GDV-i nduced shock. Procedure-Initially, HSD solution (5 ml/kg of body weigh t) or IRS (60 to 90 ml/kg) was administered. Aii dogs then received a maintenance administration (20 ml/kg/h) of IRS. Cardiorespiratory, blo od gas, and serum biochemical analyses were performed over a 4-hour pe riod after initiation of treatment. Results-Systolic arterial and cent ral venous pressures and plasma volume increased more rapidly in dogs in the HSD + IRS group, The cumulative dose of fluids administered to dogs in the HSD + IRS group was significantly less than that administe red to dogs in the LRS group. Serum sodium and chloride concentrations and osmolarity increased significantly in dogs in the HSD; IRS group, but not in dogs in the LRS group. Ventricular arrhythmias were detect ed in both groups of dogs, but did not appear to be induced by either form of fluid therapy. Clinical Implications-Administration of HSD rap idly restored cardiorespiratory function and induced resuscitation equ ivalent to administration of large volumes of LRS. Use of HSD solution s to treat dogs in GDV-induced shock may be more efficient than use of isotonic fluids. Administration of HSD solution was not associated wi th noticeable complications.