Large-Dose Administration of 6% Hydroxyethyl Starch 200/0.5 for Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract

Within a daily dose of 20 mL/kg, medium-molecular hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is a safe and effective colloid for intravascular blood volume replacement. The effect of large doses on coagulation and renal function is unknown. We prospectively studied 41 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty during the perioperative period. Inevitable blood loss was replaced with HES (HES group) or albumin (ALB group) in combination with packed red blood cells (PRBC), fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and platelets. Hemodynamic, oncotic, coagulation, and renal functions were compared initially, at the end of surgery, during the postoperative period (1, 3, and 6 h), and also with respect to the volume of colloid solution administered (1500, 2000, and 3000 mL). Total intake and output balances, as well as the costs of blood replacement therapy, were registered at the end of the study. We found differences in oncotic variables even at 6 h after surgery (total serum proteins [TSP]: HES 36.4 +/- 7.9 g/L versus ALB 55.6 +/- 6.1 g/L, P < 0.01; serum albumin: HES 25.5 +/- 5.3 g/L versus ALB 42.0 +/- 5.6 g/L, P < 0.01). Colloid osmotic pressure (COP) and hemodynamic, coagulation, and renal functions were comparable, as was total blood loss (HES 4247 +/- 2090 mL versus ALB 4051 +/- 2830 mL). Total requirements for colloid solutions (HES 35.9 +/- 7.4 mL/kg versus ALB 33.9 +/- 10.5 mL/kg), PRBC, FFP, or platelets were comparable, whereas total cost of blood replacement therapy was 33% less in the HES group. With respect to efficacy and side effects on coagulation and renal function, medium molecular HES is an appropriate and economic alternative to albumin at daily doses of up to at least 36 mL/kg. (Anesth Analg 1996;83:262-8)