Efficacy and safety of balanced infusion therapy in elective abdominal and pelvic surgery

Objective. To evaluate blood electrolyte and acid-base balance in perioperative period of elective abdominal and pelvic surgeries depending on infusion therapy. Material and methods. Seventy-two patients scheduled for abdominal or pelvic surgery were randomly assigned to receive balanced (Gelaspan combined with Sterofundin ISO) or unbalanced (Gelofusine combined with 0.9% NaCl) infusion therapy. Conventional perioperative monitoring was performed. In addition, acid-base balance was assessed at three points: 1) before induction, 2) at the end of surgery, and 3) 12 hours after surgery. We analyzed gas composition and biochemical parameters in arterial blood taken from radial artery. Results. At the end of surgery, more pronounced acidosis (decreased BE, pH, and HCO3-) was determined after unbalanced infusion therapy. After 12 postoperative hours, unbalanced infusion therapy was followed by significantly higher serum chlorides and lower BE. Conclusion. Administration of Gelaspan and Sterofundin ISO keeps normal acid-base balance in patients with ASA grade II/III undergoing elective open abdominal or pelvic surgery. At the same time, mild metabolic acidosis and higher serum chloride levels were observed after administration of Gelofusine and 0.9% NaCl.