Comparative effects of human albumin versus modern hydroxyethyl starch in living-donor renal transplant

Abstract

Background Living-donor renal transplantation is considered the best therapy for renal failure patients. The outcome and graft function are affected by various perioperative variables. Fluid management remains a controversy whether to use crystalloids or colloids with the effect of either type of solution on graft function and overall morbidity. Patients and methods We studied 120 patients with end-stage renal disease, who were on regular hemodialysis scheduled for living-related kidney transplantation. The patients were assigned to receive either 6% hydroxylethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4 (Voluven) (HES group: n=60) or albumin 5% (ALB group: n=60) for intraoperative use. In both groups, normal saline was administered at 10 ml/kg/h. In addition, patients received 250 ml boluses of either Voluven (HES group) with a maximum of 50 ml/kg/day or ALB 5% (ALB group) to maintain their central venous pressure between 12 and 15 mmHg. Blood transfusion was given based on the hemoglobin level ( Results There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding hemodynamic variables, onset of diuresis, or need for postoperative dialysis. Perioperative laboratory workup (BUN, creatinine, creatinine clearance, and INR) were similar in both study groups. Conclusion There are no statistically significant differences between the use of HES solutions and ALB 5% on the outcome of living-donor renal transplant recipients. Using either solutions is comparable to the other with no special side effects.