The impact of operative fluids on the prevention of postoperative anesthetic complications in ambulatory surgery--high dose vs low dose

Abstract

Background/aim: Adequate control of postoperative (postop.) nausea, vomiting, dizziness and thirst, and early return to normal activity are important anesthetic goals in the context of ambulatory surgery. This study, investigated the impact of different preoperative fluid therapies or regimens on preventing postop. nausea, vomiting, dizziness and thirst.

Materials and methods: In a prospective randomized double-blind study, from June 2002 to November 2003, two hundred ASA grade I-II ambulatory surgical patients received 20 ml/kg of intravenous isotonic electrolyte solution (0.9% sodium chloride) (group A) or 2 ml/kg of same (group B) (n = 100 in each group), over 30 minutes before induction of anesthesia. A standard general anesthetic technique and postop. analgesia were used throughout the operation. Adverse postop. outcomes (nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and thirst) were assessed at 30 and 60 minutes postop. and at discharge.

Results: The incidence of postop. vomiting and thirst significantly decreased in group A compared to group B (p = 0.014 and p = 0.029, respectively). There was no difference in the incidence of nausea and dizziness between the two groups.

Conclusion: We conclude that preoperative high dose hydration (20 ml/kg bolus) can efficiently decrease the incidence of postop. thirst and vomiting within the first 60 minutes, it was superior to low dose hydration and therefore, we recommend it in ambulatory surgeries.