New insights into fluid resuscitation

Recent high-quality randomised-controlled trials comparing the effects of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) preparations and crystalloids for fluid resuscitation in critically ill patients have demonstrated an increased risk of death and use of renal replacement therapy (RRT). Consequently, a number of systematic reviews incorporating these new results have been published that have consistently demonstrated an increased risk of death and use of RRT associated with HES solutions, regardless of type of HES and dose administered, both in general intensive care patients and in those with severe sepsis. These effects become apparent in the post-resuscitation period and may relate to increased tissue accumulation associated with HES. These results question the clinical role of semi-synthetic colloids for fluid resuscitation and mandate a reappraisal about how these fluids are administered to critically ill patients, specifically considering the potential for toxicity.