Fluid resuscitation with Haemaccel vs. human albumin following coronary artery bypass grafting

Abstract

Several colloid preparations are available for fluid resuscitation following heart surgery. We conducted a randomized prospective trial to compare a polygeline infusion versus human albumin with respect to hemodynamic and pulmonary function. 20 patients were randomly assigned to receive either Haemaccel or human albumin using a standardized protocol for the first 8 hours following heart surgery. The double-indicator dilution method was used to measure total blood volume index (TBVI), intrathoracic blood volume index (ITBVI) and extravascular lung water index (EVLWI) three times during the study period. Pulmonary shunt fraction, time on ventilator, and chest tube drainage were measured as well. Hemodynamic stability was achieved in both groups throughout the study period, as judged from mean arterial pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and cardiac index. ITBV and TBVI were higher in the albumin group, although only significant at 4 hours for TBVI. There was no significant difference in EVLWI, pulmonary shunt fraction, and time on mechanical ventilation. Likewise, chest tube drainage was not significantly different in both groups. Haemaccel is effective in maintaining hemodynamic stability following heart surgery without ill effects of lung function or chest tube drainage. Treatment costs are substantially lower compared to human albumin.