Double Blind Randomized Trial of Saline vs Pentaspan for Resuscitation After Cardiac Surgery

A Randomized Trial of Synthetic vs Normal Saline for the Flow-based Algorithmic Hemodynamic Resuscitation of Patients Post-cardiac Surgery

This is a randomized double blind trial of the use of the use of colloids vs crystalloid solutions for resuscitation of patients after cardiac surgery. Patients are managed with an algorithm driven protocol that is based on the flow response to fluid challenges. The hypothesis is that the use of a colloid solution will result in less use of catecholamines at 8:00 the morning following surgery. Secondary end-points include total use of catecholamines, time in the ICU, return to the ICU, and safety issues including bleeding and renal function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• status post cardiac surgery
• pulmonary artery occlusion catheter in place
• informed consent
• morning case (must be out of OR by 2:00 PM

Exclusion Criteria:

• excessive bleeding (> 200 cc/hr)
• intraaortic balloon pump
• refusal by treating team
• emergency cases
• patients with known adverse reactions to starch solutions