Use of hyperosmotic (7.5% NaCl) and hyperoncotic (dextran 70) solutions in the treatment of hypovolemic shock

Twenty-four patients with hypotension (blood pressure <80 mm Hg), injured in traffic accidents, were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit 1-5 hours after the accident. Eight patients were administered 7.5% NaCl, five patients received a combination of 7.5% NaCl and dextran. 70, and ten. patients were given dextran 70 solution. In, the first two groups, blood pressure increased to 3100 mm Hg 4 min, after the beginning of infusion, entailing improvement in. the state of consciusness and diuresis. In patients receiving dextran 70, blood pressure elevation to 100 mm Hg occurred only 95 +/- 17 min, after the beginning of infusion of 1-1.5 l dextran 70. In the first two groups, osmolarity and plasma sodium level were observed to increase, whereas the level of potassium decreased. Administration of a small volume of 7.5% NaCl with dextran for resuscitation was found to result in, rapid blood pressure recovery and improved circulation in. patients with hemorrhagic shock.