Perioperative crystalloid and colloid fluid management in children: where are we and how did we get here?

The effect of high-volume intraoperative fluid administration on outcomes among pediatric patients undergoing living donor liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Pediatric patients undergoing liver transplantation are particularly susceptible to complications arising from intraoperative fluid management strategies. Conventional liberal fluid administration has been challenged due to its association with increased perioperative morbidity. This study aimed to assess the impact of intraoperative high-volume fluid therapy on pediatric patients who are undergoing living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

METHODS

Conducted at the Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from March 2018 to April 2021, this retrospective study involved 90 pediatric patients divided into high-volume and non-high-volume fluid administration groups based on the 80th percentile of fluid administered. We collected the perioperative parameters and postoperative information of two groups. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to assess the association between estimated blood loss (EBL) and high-volume FA. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to compare patient survival after pediatric LDLT.

RESULTS

Patients in the high-volume FA group received a higher EBL and longer length of stay than that in the non-high-volume FA group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that hours of maintenance fluids and fresh frozen plasma were significantly associated risk factors for the occurrence of EBL during pediatric LDLT. In addition, survival analysis showed no significant differences in one-year mortality between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

High-volume fluid administration during LDLT is linked with poorer intraoperative and postoperative outcomes among pediatric patients. These findings underscore the need for more conservative fluid management strategies in pediatric liver transplantations to enhance recovery and reduce complications.

Postoperative coagulopathy among otherwise healthy pediatric patients undergoing open craniosynostosis repair: a retrospective study

Significant blood loss and resultant transfusion may lead to coagulopathy. The need for routine transfusion of non-RBC blood products in healthy pediatric patients suffering significant, yet controlled, intra-operative blood loss is controversial. Open craniosynostosis surgery is often associated with significant intra-operative blood loss and transfusion, and routinely preformed on otherwise healthy pediatric patients. Therefore, we found it as a useful model for our study, which aimed to assess the need for routine transfusion of non-RBC blood products in healthy pediatric patients suffering significant intra-operative blood loss. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of otherwise healthy pediatric patients, undergoing open craniosynostosis surgery and transfused solely with packed red blood cells (pRBCs) in a single large-volume tertiary surgical center, between January 2010 and December 2021. Among 457 eligible patients, 34 (7.4%) developed significant postoperative coagulopathy. Median [IQR] intra-operative pRBC transfusion volume was 17.4 ml kg^-1 [13.3, 23.1]. Patients who developed coagulopathy did not have higher postoperative pRBC transfusion rate (8.8% vs 3.8%, P = 0.16) or volume (median [IQR], 0 [0, 0] vs 0 [0, 0] ml, P = 0.15), nor higher hospital LOS (5 [4, 5] vs 5 [4, 5] days, P = 0.66). ICU LOS was 0.8 [0.7, 1] vs 0.7 [0.6, 0.8] days (P = 0.02), a difference of no clinical significance.  Conclusions: The incidence of significant coagulopathy after craniosynostosis surgery was low, and not associated with clinically important complications. In otherwise healthy pediatric patients, even significant intra-operative blood loss can be safely managed solely with intravenous fluids and pRBC transfusion. What is Known: • Significant intra-operative blood loss and resultant transfusion may lead to postoperative coagulopathy. • There are potential deleterious effects from both coagulopathy and administration of blood products. What is New: • Open craniosynostosis corrective surgery is a useful model for studying coagulopathy after significant intra-operative blood loss and transfusion in otherwise healthy children. • Under certain conditions, in otherwise healthy pediatric patients, even significant intra-operative blood loss can be safely treated with intravenous fluids and pRBC transfusion alone, with no clinically significant postoperative coagulopathy or its complications.

Fetal and Neonatal Anesthesia

Anesthesia for fetal and neonatal surgery requires subspecialized knowledge and expertise. Attention to important anatomic, physiologic, and metabolic differences seen in pregnancy and at birth are essential for the optimal care of these patients. Thorough preoperative evaluations tailored intraoperative strategies and careful postoperative management are critical when devising the anesthetic approach for each of these cases.

Pediatric robotic surgery: issues in management-expert consensus from the Italian Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Anesthesia and Intensive Care (SARNePI) and the Italian Society of Pediatric Surgery (SICP)

BACKGROUND

Pediatric robotic-assisted surgeries have increased in recent years; however, guidance documents are still lacking. This study aimed to develop evidence-based recommendations, or best practice statements when evidence is lacking or inadequate, to assist surgical teams internationally.

METHODS

A joint consensus taskforce of anesthesiologists and surgeons from the Italian Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Anesthesia and Intensive Care (SARNePI) and the Italian Society of Pediatric Surgery (SICP) have identified critical areas and reviewed the available evidence. The taskforce comprised 21 experts representing the fields of anesthesia (n = 11) and surgery (n = 10) from clinical centers performing pediatric robotic surgery in the Italian cities of Ancona, Bologna, Milan, Naples, Padua, Pavia, Perugia, Rome, Siena, and Verona. Between December 2020 and September 2021, three meetings, two Delphi rounds, and a final consensus conference took place.

RESULTS

During the first planning meeting, the panel agreed on the specific objectives, the definitions to apply, and precise methodology. The project was structured into three subtopics: (i) preoperative patient assessment and preparation; (ii) intraoperative management (surgical and anesthesiologic); and (iii) postoperative procedures. Within these phases, the panel agreed to address a total of 18 relevant areas, which spanned preoperative patient assessment and patient selection, anesthesiology, critical care medicine, respiratory care, prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and pain management.

CONCLUSION

Collaboration among surgeons and anesthesiologists will be increasingly important for achieving safe and effective RAS procedures. These recommendations will provide a review for those who already have relevant experience and should be particularly useful for those starting a new program.

Perioperative fluid management in children: an updated review

Background: Perioperative fluid management in children has been a major topic for debate. Objectives: Our aim is to review the current evidence on perioperative fluid management in children including: type of fluid, administration rates, preoperative fluid intake and monitoring techniques. Design: Narrative review. Method: Following the PRISMA-S guidelines we performed a search (2010-March 2022) in databases Medline (through PubMed) and Cochrane Library. 4297 citations were found and screened by two independent researchers. After screening, 64 articles were withheld for our review. Results: The perioperative administration of isotonic fluids is safer than hypotonic solutions, concerning the development of hyponatremia. A balanced isotonic solution with 1-2,5% glucose should be used as perioperative maintenance IV fluid in children (1 month to 18 years). Colloids can be used in children when inadequate effect in volume correction is achieved with crystalloids. The preferred synthetic colloid for children is a third generation HES in a balanced solution. To date, most clinicians use the “4-2-1 rule” for calculating fluid rate. This may not be the optimal fluid rate, as little research has been done. Preoperative fasting for clear fluids should be limited to 1 hour, children should even be encouraged to drink up until 1 hour before induction. Respiratory variation of aortic blood flow peak velocity (ΔVpeak) with echocardiography is currently the most reliable technique for evaluating fluid responsiveness in children.

Pediatric Perioperative Clinical Pharmacy Practice: Clinical Considerations and Management: An Opinion of the Pediatrics and Perioperative Care Practice and Research Networks of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy

Pediatric perioperative clinical pharmacists are uniquely positioned to provide therapeutic and medication management expertise at a particularly vulnerable transition of care from the preoperative space, through surgery, and postoperative setting. There are many direct-patient care activities that are included in the role of the pediatric perioperative pharmacist, as well as many opportunities to develop effective, optimized, and safe medication use processes. This article outlines many of the areas in which a pediatric perioperative clinical pharmacist may intervene.

"Systematic Review and Guidelines for Perioperative Management of Pediatric Patients Undergoing Major Plastic Surgery Procedures, With a Focus on Free Tissue Transfer."

BACKGROUND

Microsurgical free tissue transfer has been successfully implemented for various reconstructive applications in children. The goal of this study was to identify the best available evidence on perioperative management of pediatric patients undergoing free tissue transfer, and use it to develop evidence-based care guidelines.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted in Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases. Since a preliminary search of the pediatric microsurgical literature yielded scant data with low level of evidence (LOE), pediatric anesthesia guidelines for healthy children undergoing major surgeries were also included. Exclusion criteria included: vague descriptions of perioperative care, case reports, and studies of syndromic or chronically ill children.

RESULTS

204 articles were identified, and 53 met inclusion criteria. Management approaches specific to the pediatric population were used to formulate recommendations. High quality data was found for anesthesia, analgesia, fluid administration / blood transfusion, and anticoagulation (LOE 1). Lower quality evidence was identified for patient temperature (LOE 3) and vasodilator use (LOE 4). Key recommendations include: administering sevoflurane for general anesthesia, implementing a multimodal analgesia strategy, limiting preoperative fasting, restricting blood transfusions until hemoglobin < 7 g/dl unless patient is symptomatic, and reserving chemical venous thromboembolism prophylaxis for high risk patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric-specific guidelines are important as they acknowledge physiologic differences in children, which may be overlooked when extrapolating from adult studies. These evidence-based recommendations are a key first step toward standardization of perioperative care of pediatric patients undergoing plastic surgical procedures, including free tissue transfer, to improve outcomes and minimize complications.

Pediatric perioperative fluid management

Appropriate fluid management is vital for adequate tissue perfusion and balancing the internal milieu especially in perioperative settings and critically ill children. Pediatric population is heterogeneous so one formula may not suffice and hence both the quantitative and qualitative perspective of fluid management should be based on physiology and pathology of the child along with their perioperative needs. In perioperative setup, the fluid is administered to meet fluid deficits (fasting, and other daily based losses), blood losses and third space losses. Anesthetists have always followed pediatric maintenance fluid calculations based on Holiday and Segar formula; based on studies conducted on healthy children more than 70 years ago. Recently, there has been a lot of debate about this concept, especially as there are serious concerns regarding the development of complications like hyponatremia and hyperglycemia, both of which can result in neurological damage or even mortality in a sick child. This review is an attempt to provide a historical perspective and current evidence-based approach to peri-operative pediatric fluid management. We performed a PUBMED search for articles using keywords including ‘children’, ‘intravenous fluid therapy’, ‘crystalloids’, ‘colloids’, ‘fluid homeostasis’, ‘blood loss’, ‘estimation of blood loss’, ‘blood loss management’, ‘perioperative fluid ‘ to get our source articles.

Educational Perspectives: Anesthesia 101: What the Neonatologist Needs to Know About Anesthesiology

As the complexity of medicine increases, so too do the challenges with multidisciplinary communication and coordinated patient care. Anesthesiology represents a field for which there is no required study for medical students, pediatric residents, or neonatal-perinatal medicine fellows in the United States, so a neonatologist may have never received any formal training in anesthesiology (and vice versa for pediatric anesthesiologists in neonatology). In this review, we address frequently asked questions of neonatologists to anesthesiologists to better frame common issues. These topics include thermal regulation, fluid management, airway management, and the field of regional anesthesiology. Finally, collaborative efforts between the surgical and medical fields, such as the American College of Surgeons Children's Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program, and the American Academy of Pediatrics NICU Verification Program, are ongoing and robust; these programs represent important opportunities to significantly improve the perioperative care of infants. Our hope is that this summary can serve as a primer and reference for those caring for neonatal patients during any perioperative period, including seasoned neonatologists and those early in their training. It is our further desire that this review will lead to improved communication and collegiality between the specialties.

Does a two-minute mini-fluid challenge predict fluid responsiveness in pediatric patients under general anesthesia?

BACKGROUND

Very little evidence for predictive markers of fluid responsiveness has been reported in children as compared to adults. The impact of hypovolemia or hypervolemia on morbidity has driven interest in the fluid challenge titration strategy.

AIM

The objective of this study was to explore the ability of a 3 mL kg^-1 mini-fluid challenge over 2 minutes to predict fluid responsiveness in children under controlled ventilation.

METHODS

Children scheduled for surgery under general anesthesia were included and received a fluid challenge of 15 mL kg^-1 of crystalloid prior to incision administered over 10 minutes in two steps: 3 mL kg^-1 over 2 minutes then 12 mL kg^-1 over 8 minutes. Fluid responsiveness was defined as a change of ≥10% in cardiac output estimated by left ventricular outflow tract velocity time integral (VTI) as measured by transthoracic ultrasound before and after the fluid challenge of 15 mL kg^-1 .

RESULTS

Of the 55 patients included in the analysis, 43 were fluid responders. The increase in the VTI after the mini-fluid challenge (ΔVTI_miniFC ) predicted fluid responsiveness with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.77; 95% CI (0.63-0.87), P = .004. Considering the least significant change which was 7.9%; 95% CI (6-10), the threshold was 8% with a sensitivity of 53%; 95% CI (38-68); and a specificity of 77%; 95% CI (54-100).

CONCLUSION

ΔVTI_miniFC weakly predicted the effects of a fluid challenge of 15 mL kg^-1 of crystalloid in anesthetized children under controlled mechanical ventilation.

Perioperative fluid therapy and intraoperative blood loss in children

Fluid and blood administration are required during surgery in children. The type, amount and tonicity of the intravenous fluids is an important aspect to be considered during anaesthesia management. The physiological differences between adults and children regarding the body water and blood volume needs to be understood. We performed a PUBMED search for English language articles using keywords including 'children', 'intravenous fluid therapy', 'crystalloids', 'colloids', 'fluid homeostasis', 'Starling equation', 'Donnan effect', 'blood loss', 'estimation of blood loss', 'blood management program'. This review discusses the physiological basis, historical background, risk of hyponatraemia, need of glucose in the intravenous fluids as well as the recent concepts in blood transfusion as related to children.

Perioperative fluid management in children: can we sum it all up now?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The composition and type of intravenous fluids during paediatric anaesthesia have been subjects of debates for decades. Errors in perioperative fluid management in children may lead to serious complications and a negative outcome. Therefore, in this review, historical and recent developments and recommendations for perioperative fluid management in children are presented, based on physiology and focused on safety and efficacy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Optimized fasting times and liberal clear fluid intake until 1 h improve patient comfort and metabolic and haemodynamic condition after induction of anaesthesia. Physiologically composed balanced isotonic electrolyte solutions are safer than hypotonic electrolyte solutions or saline 0.9% to protect young children against the risks of hyponatraemia and hyperchloraemic acidosis. For intraoperative maintenance infusion, addition of 1-2% glucose is sufficient to avoid hypoglycaemia, lipolysis or hyperglycaemia. Modified fluid gelatine or hydroxyethyl starch in balanced electrolyte solution can safely be used to quickly normalize blood volume in case of perioperative circulatory instability and blood loss.

SUMMARY

Physiologically composed balanced isotonic electrolyte solutions are beneficial for maintaining homeostasis, shifting the status more towards the normal range in patients with preexisting imbalances and have a wide margin of safety in case of accidental hyperinfusion.

Association between perioperative surgical home implementation and transfusion patterns in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis undergoing spinal fusion

BACKGROUND

Blood transfusions in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis after fusion have been associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and cost.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between implementation of blood-conservation strategies within the perioperative surgical home on transfusion rates for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis undergoing spinal fusion.

METHODS

Two hundred and thirteen patients (44 preperioperative surgical home, 169 postperioperative surgical home) who underwent posterior spine fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis between 23 June 2014, and 30 July 2017, were enrolled in this case control study. The perioperative surgical home implemented in March 2015 involved evidence-based perioperative interventions to create a standardized clinical pathway including judicious use of crystalloid management, restrictive transfusion strategy, routine use of cell saver, and standardized administration of anti-fibrinolytics. The primary outcome was odds of perioperative transfusion. Secondary outcomes included volumes of crystalloid, albumin, cell saver, packed red blood cells as well as calculated blood loss. Other variables that were documented included antibrinolytic total dose, mean arterial pressure, temperature, laboratory values, intrathecal morphine dosing, and surgical time. Statistical methods included t test and logistic regression.

RESULTS

For the postperioperative surgical home, the odds of perioperative transfusion were 0.30 (95% CI 0.13-0.70), as compared to preperioperative surgical home. In terms of secondary outcomes, calculated blood loss was significantly lower in the postperioperative surgical home patients (27.0 mL/kg preperioperative surgical home vs 22.8 mL/kg postperioperative surgical home; mean difference = -0.24 [-0.44, -0.04]). Although no difference was noted in the amount of intraoperative cell saver or albumin administered, a reduction was noted in mean intraoperative crystalloid given postperioperative surgical home (41.4 mL/kg ± 20.4 mL/kg preperioperative surgical home vs 28.0 mL/kg ± 13.7 mL/kg postperioperative surgical home; log mean difference = 0.37 [95% CI 0.21-0.53], P < 0.001). Postperioperative surgical home patients also had a significantly higher temperature nadir (mean difference = -0.47 [95% CI -0.70 to -0.23]; P < 0.001), received a significantly higher total anti-fibrinolytic dose (mean difference = -3939 [95% CI -5364 to -2495]; P < 0.001), and were exposed to shorter surgical times (mean difference = 0.72 [95% CI 0.36-1.09]; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of blood-conservation strategies as part of a perioperative surgical home for patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis undergoing posterior spine fusion resulted in significant decrease in perioperative blood transfusions.

Substitution of artificial colloids for fresh frozen plasma in pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass surgery

BACKGROUND

In many centers, fresh frozen plasma is generally used as the main component of pump prime in pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass. However, many factors have resulted in stringent control of plasma transfusion and prompted the study of safe and efficient substitutes.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a priming strategy with gelatin during cardiopulmonary bypass in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery and identify the factors associated with postoperative chest-tube drainage.

METHODS

We reviewed 1164 pediatric patients who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass between January 2012 and April 2013 in Fuwai hospital. Infants and children were primed with different types of solution: plasma or gelatin. Clinical data included postoperative coagulation function (pharmacological agents, chest-tube drainage, and transfusion requirements), recovery indicators (mechanical ventilator time, ICU stay and hospital stay), incidence of in-hospital mortality, and morbidity. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to identify factors correlated with postoperative chest-tube drainage.

RESULTS

No difference in mortality or morbidity was found between the plasma and gelatin groups. In infants, increased chest-tube drainage (postoperation 12 hours, median difference -0.046 ml/kg/hr, 95%CI: -0.105 to -0.007, P = 0.001; postoperation 24 hours, median difference -0.047 ml/kg/hr, 95%CI: -0.081 to -0.025, P < 0.001), and decreased transfusion (red blood cell, median difference 0.00 ml/kg/hr, 95%CI: 0.000-100, P < 0.001; fresh frozen plasma, median difference 5.556 ml/kg/hr, 95%CI: 2.30-8.333, P = 0.001), and recovery time (mechanical ventilator time, median difference 3.00 hours, 95%CI: 1.00-5.500, P < 0.001; ICU stay, median difference 17.00 hours, 95%CI: 1.00-22.000, P = 0.001; hospital stay, median difference 1.00 day, 95%CI: 0.00-2.000, P = 0.038) were demonstrated in the gelatin group. In children, the transfusion requirements (red blood cell, median difference 100 ml, P < 0.001;fresh frozen plasma, median difference 1.11 ml/kg, 95%CI: 0.000-2.42, P = 0.001) were decreased in the gelatin group. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that the type of priming solution (β = 1.940,95%CI: 1.057-2.823,P < 0.001), bypass time (β = 0.024, 95%CI: 0.013-0.036, P < 0.001), and age (β = -0.257, 95%CI: -0.422 to -0.09, P = 0.002) were independent variables correlating with chest-tube drainage in infants.

CONCLUSION

In the general pediatric patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery, substitution of gelatin for fresh frozen plasma in cardiopulmonary bypass is feasible.

Colloids versus crystalloids for fluid resuscitation in critically ill people

BACKGROUND

Critically ill people may lose fluid because of serious conditions, infections (e.g. sepsis), trauma, or burns, and need additional fluids urgently to prevent dehydration or kidney failure. Colloid or crystalloid solutions may be used for this purpose. Crystalloids have small molecules, are cheap, easy to use, and provide immediate fluid resuscitation, but may increase oedema. Colloids have larger molecules, cost more, and may provide swifter volume expansion in the intravascular space, but may induce allergic reactions, blood clotting disorders, and kidney failure. This is an update of a Cochrane Review last published in 2013.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of using colloids versus crystalloids in critically ill people requiring fluid volume replacement on mortality, need for blood transfusion or renal replacement therapy (RRT), and adverse events (specifically: allergic reactions, itching, rashes).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and two other databases on 23 February 2018. We also searched clinical trials registers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs of critically ill people who required fluid volume replacement in hospital or emergency out-of-hospital settings. Participants had trauma, burns, or medical conditions such as sepsis. We excluded neonates, elective surgery and caesarean section. We compared a colloid (suspended in any crystalloid solution) versus a crystalloid (isotonic or hypertonic).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Independently, two review authors assessed studies for inclusion, extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and synthesised findings. We assessed the certainty of evidence with GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 69 studies (65 RCTs, 4 quasi-RCTs) with 30,020 participants. Twenty-eight studied starch solutions, 20 dextrans, seven gelatins, and 22 albumin or fresh frozen plasma (FFP); each type of colloid was compared to crystalloids.Participants had a range of conditions typical of critical illness. Ten studies were in out-of-hospital settings. We noted risk of selection bias in some studies, and, as most studies were not prospectively registered, risk of selective outcome reporting. Fourteen studies included participants in the crystalloid group who received or may have received colloids, which might have influenced results.We compared four types of colloid (i.e. starches; dextrans; gelatins; and albumin or FFP) versus crystalloids.Starches versus crystalloidsWe found moderate-certainty evidence that there is probably little or no difference between using starches or crystalloids in mortality at: end of follow-up (risk ratio (RR) 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.86 to 1.09; 11,177 participants; 24 studies); within 90 days (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.14; 10,415 participants; 15 studies); or within 30 days (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.09; 10,135 participants; 11 studies).We found moderate-certainty evidence that starches probably slightly increase the need for blood transfusion (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.39; 1917 participants; 8 studies), and RRT (RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.48; 8527 participants; 9 studies). Very low-certainty evidence means we are uncertain whether either fluid affected adverse events: we found little or no difference in allergic reactions (RR 2.59, 95% CI 0.27 to 24.91; 7757 participants; 3 studies), fewer incidences of itching with crystalloids (RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.82; 6946 participants; 2 studies), and fewer incidences of rashes with crystalloids (RR 1.61, 95% CI 0.90 to 2.89; 7007 participants; 2 studies).Dextrans versus crystalloidsWe found moderate-certainty evidence that there is probably little or no difference between using dextrans or crystalloids in mortality at: end of follow-up (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.11; 4736 participants; 19 studies); or within 90 days or 30 days (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.12; 3353 participants; 10 studies). We are uncertain whether dextrans or crystalloids reduce the need for blood transfusion, as we found little or no difference in blood transfusions (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.10; 1272 participants, 3 studies; very low-certainty evidence). We found little or no difference in allergic reactions (RR 6.00, 95% CI 0.25 to 144.93; 739 participants; 4 studies; very low-certainty evidence). No studies measured RRT.Gelatins versus crystalloidsWe found low-certainty evidence that there may be little or no difference between gelatins or crystalloids in mortality: at end of follow-up (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.08; 1698 participants; 6 studies); within 90 days (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.09; 1388 participants; 1 study); or within 30 days (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.16; 1388 participants; 1 study). Evidence for blood transfusion was very low certainty (3 studies), with a low event rate or data not reported by intervention. Data for RRT were not reported separately for gelatins (1 study). We found little or no difference between groups in allergic reactions (very low-certainty evidence).Albumin or FFP versus crystalloidsWe found moderate-certainty evidence that there is probably little or no difference between using albumin or FFP or using crystalloids in mortality at: end of follow-up (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.06; 13,047 participants; 20 studies); within 90 days (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.04; 12,492 participants; 10 studies); or within 30 days (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.06; 12,506 participants; 10 studies). We are uncertain whether either fluid type reduces need for blood transfusion (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.80; 290 participants; 3 studies; very low-certainty evidence). Using albumin or FFP versus crystalloids may make little or no difference to the need for RRT (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.27; 3028 participants; 2 studies; very low-certainty evidence), or in allergic reactions (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.17 to 3.33; 2097 participants, 1 study; very low-certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Using starches, dextrans, albumin or FFP (moderate-certainty evidence), or gelatins (low-certainty evidence), versus crystalloids probably makes little or no difference to mortality. Starches probably slightly increase the need for blood transfusion and RRT (moderate-certainty evidence), and albumin or FFP may make little or no difference to the need for renal replacement therapy (low-certainty evidence). Evidence for blood transfusions for dextrans, and albumin or FFP, is uncertain. Similarly, evidence for adverse events is uncertain. Certainty of evidence may improve with inclusion of three ongoing studies and seven studies awaiting classification, in future updates.

Novel Pump Control Technology Accelerates Drug Delivery Onset in a Model of Pediatric Drug Infusion

BACKGROUND

Laboratory data suggest that newly initiated drug infusions reach steady-state delivery after a significant time lag. Depending on drug and carrier flow rates and the infusion system's common volume, lag times may exceed 20 or more minutes, especially in the neonatal/pediatric critical care environment. This study tested the hypothesis that a computer-executed algorithm controlling infusion pumps in a coordinated fashion predictably hastens the achievement of the intended steady-state drug delivery in a model of neonatal/pediatric drug infusion.

METHODS

We constructed an in vitro model of neonatal/pediatric drug infusions through a pediatric 4-Fr central venous catheter at total system flows of 2 mL/h or 12 mL/h, representing a clinically relevant infusion range. Methylene blue served as the model infused drug for quantitative analysis. A novel algorithm, based on Taylor Dispersion Theory of fluid flow through tubes and executed by a computer, generated flow patterns that controlled and coordinated drug and carrier delivery by syringe pumps. We measured the time to achieve the intended steady-state drug delivery by conventional initiation of the drug infusion ("turning on the drug pump") and by algorithm-controlled infusion initiation.

RESULTS

At 2 mL/h total system flow, application of the algorithm reduced the time to achieve half of the intended drug delivery rate (T50) from 17 minutes [17, 18] to 3 minutes [3, 3] (median, interquartile range). At 12 mL/h total system flow, application of the algorithm reduced T50 from 6 minutes [6, 7] to 3 minutes [3, 3] The bootstrapped median difference is -14 (95% confidence interval [CI], -16 to -12, adjusted P=.00192) for 2 mL/h flow and -3 (95% CI, -4 to -3, adjusted P=.02061) for 12 mL/h flow. Compared with conventional initiation, the additional fluid required by the algorithm-directed infusion was 0.43 and 1.03 mL for the low- and high-infusion rates, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The output of infusion pumps can be predictably controlled and coordinated by a computer-executed algorithm in a model of neonatal/pediatric drug infusions. Application of an algorithm can reduce the time to achieve the intended rate of infused drug delivery with minimal incremental volume administration.

Effects of colloid pre-loading on thromboelastography during elective intracranial tumor surgery in pediatric patients: hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 versus 5% human albumin

BACKGROUND

Volume replacement therapy with colloid is still worth studying in major pediatric surgery with potential risk of bleeding. This study assessed the effects of 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4 and 5% Human Albumin (HA) on coagulation tested by thromboelastography (TEG) during elective intracranial tumor surgery in pediatric patients.

METHODS

In this randomized controlled trial, 60 patients undergoing intracranial tumor resection under general anesthesia were assigned to HES and HA groups (n = 30), and administered preloads of 20 mL · kg^-1 HES 130/0.4 and 5% HA, respectively, prior to dura opening. Primary outcomes were perioperative thromboelastography findings, and hemodynamic and hematological parameters. Blood transfusion, perioperative fluid balance, intracranial pressure, mortality, intensive care unit stay, and hospital stay were also assessed.

RESULTS

TEG parameters did not differ after preloading compared to baseline values in either group, except for a decrease in maximum amplitude immediately after infusion (HES group, 57.6 ± 6.0 mm vs. 50.9 ± 9.2 mm; HA group, 60.1 ± 7.9 mm vs. 56.6 ± 7.1 mm; p < 0.01), which was restored to preoperative levels 1 h after fluid infusion. Total perioperative fluid balance, blood loss or transfusion, intracranial pressure, and hematological and hemodynamic variables were similar between both groups (p > 0.05). Mortality, length of hospital stay, and clinical complications were similar between both groups.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that HES and HA might have no significant differences regarding coagulation as assessed by TEG during pediatric intracranial tumor surgery with 20 ml/kg volume pre-loading, which can maintain stable hemodynamics and may represent a new avenue for volume therapy during brain tumor resection in pediatrics.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR-IPR- 16009333 , retrospectively registered October 8, 2016.

Intraoperative Fluids and Fluid Management for Ambulatory Dental Sedation and General Anesthesia

Intravenous fluids are administered in virtually every parenteral sedation and general anesthetic. The purpose of this article is to review the physiology of body-water distribution and fluid dynamics at the vascular endothelium, evaluation of fluid status, calculation of fluid requirements, and the clinical rationale for the use of various crystalloid and colloid solutions. In the setting of elective dental outpatient procedures with minor blood loss, isotonic balanced crystalloid solutions are the fluids of choice. Colloids, on the other hand, have no use in outpatient sedation or general anesthesia for dental or minor oral surgery procedures but may have several desirable properties in long and invasive maxillofacial surgical procedures where advanced hemodynamic monitoring may assess the adequacy of intravascular volume.

Perioperative fluid management and postoperative hyponatremia in children

Intravenous (IV) fluids are used ubiquitously when children undergo surgical procedures. Until recently, Holliday and Segar's guidelines for calculating maintenance fluids dictated fluid management strategies in postoperative pediatric patients. An increased recognition of hospital-acquired hyponatremia and its associated morbidity has led to a critical re-examination of IV fluid management in this population. Postsurgical patients are at high risk of developing hyponatremia due to the presence of non-osmotic stimuli for antidiuretic hormone release. Recent studies have established that, as they are administered in current practice, hypotonic maintenance fluids are associated with increased rates of hyponatremia. The best available data demonstrate that administration of isotonic fluid reduces hyponatremic risk. In this review, we discuss the collective data available on the subject and offer guidelines for fluid management and therapeutic monitoring.

Effects of a restrictive fluid regimen in pediatric patients undergoing major abdominal surgery

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of restrictive fluid regimen during major abdominal surgery in pediatric patients.

BACKGROUND

In adults, a restrictive and goal-directed regimen as opposed to a liberal-fluid regimen results in better outcomes after various major surgical procedures. The different ratio of body fluid distribution in pediatric patients from those of adults may influence different needs of fluid.

METHODS

This stratified, randomized, controlled trial was conducted in 25 pediatric patients (mean age <3 years) undergoing major abdominal surgery. Patients were allocated to two groups based on their perioperative fluid management. 'control group' received maintenance plus deficit plus interstitial space replacement plus ongoing loss, whereas 'restrictive group' had a similar treatment, but were given no interstitial space replacement. Intraoperative fluid resuscitation was guided by hemodynamics and base excess. Parameters recorded included hemodynamic variables, the volume and type of intravenous fluid, blood chemistry (including lactate, base excess, and electrolyte), chest X-ray, body weight, complications, and return of bowel function.

RESULTS

Patients in control group needed significantly less additional fluid for resuscitation compared to restrictive group (0.62 ± 3.51 ml · kg(-1) · h(-1) vs 5.04 ± 4.16 ml · kg(-1) · h(-1) ; P = 0.012). In restrictive group, heart rates were higher (P = 0.012) and base excess showed more negative results (P = 0.049). There were no differences between the groups in terms of the total volume requirement, postoperative kidney function, chest X-ray, variation of body weight and the postoperative outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Volume preload corresponding with an estimated interstitial space replacement was suitable for application to pediatric patients undergoing major abdominal surgery.

Efficacy and safety of 6% hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 (Voluven) for perioperative volume replacement in children undergoing cardiac surgery: a propensity-matched analysis

INTRODUCTION

Six percent hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4 is considered an alternative to human albumin (HA) and crystalloids for volume replacement in children undergoing cardiac surgery. In this large propensity-matched analysis, we aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of replacing HA with HES for intraoperative volume therapy in children undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our database, including children who underwent cardiac surgery between January 2002 and December 2010. Four percent HA was used until 2005; it was replaced by HES thereafter. Demographic data, intra- and postoperative blood loss and blood component transfusions were recorded, together with the incidence of postoperative complications and mortality. We performed a propensity-matched analysis using 13 possible confounding factors to compare children who received either HES or HA intraoperatively. The primary objectives included the effects of both fluids on intraoperative fluid balance (difference between fluids in and fluids out (efficacy)) and blood loss and exposure to allogeneic blood products (safety). Secondary safety outcomes were mortality and the incidence of postoperative renal dysfunction.

RESULTS

Of 1,832 children reviewed, 1,495 were included in the analysis. Intraoperative use of HES was associated with a less positive fluid balance. Perioperative blood loss, volume of red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma administered, as well as the number of children who received transfusions, were also significantly lower in the HES group. No difference was observed regarding the incidence of postoperative renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy or of morbidity and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm that the use of HES for volume replacement in children during cardiac surgery with CPB is as safe as HA. In addition, its use might be associated with less fluid accumulation. Further large studies are needed to assess whether the reduction in fluid accumulation could have a significant impact on postoperative morbidity and mortality.

Transfusion therapy in paediatric trauma patients: a review of the literature

Haemorrhage is a leading cause of death in paediatric trauma patients. Predefined massive transfusion protocols (MTP) have the potential to significantly reduce mortality by treating haemorrhagic shock and coagulopathy, in adhering to the principles of haemostatic resuscitation with rapid administration of balanced ratios of packed red blood cells (RBC), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelets (PLT).

Because of their substantial physiological reserve, initial vital signs may not be good predictors of early haemorrhage in paediatric patients. Determining the triggers for MTP activation in paediatric trauma patients is challenging, and the optimal blood product ratio that will increase survival in massively bleeding paediatric trauma patients has yet to be determined. To date, only a few small descriptive studies and case reports have investigated the use of predefined MTP in paediatric trauma patients.

MTP with increased FFP or PLT to RBC ratios combined with viscoelastic haemostatic assay (VHA) guided haemostatic resuscitation have not yet been tested in paediatric populations but based on results from adult trauma patients, this therapeutic approach seems promising.

Considering the high prevalence of early coagulopathy in paediatric trauma patients, immediate identification and implementation of VHA-directed treatment of traumatic coagulopathy could ensure faster haemostasis and thereby, potentially, reduce bleeding as well as the total transfusion requirements and further improve outcome in paediatric trauma patients. Prospective randomized trials investigating this therapeutic approach in paediatric trauma patients are highly warranted.

Blood transfusion in patients treated with surgery for necrotizing enterocolitis

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a common surgical emergency in premature infants and has high morbidity and mortality. Intraoperative treatment with fluid and transfusions may be difficult.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated risk factors for patients who needed transfusion with packed red blood cells during surgery for necrotizing enterocolitis with bowel resection.

METHODS

Retrospective medical and anesthetic record review of 206 patients who had necrotizing enterocolitis during 10 years at a pediatric referral center.

RESULTS

In the 206 patients who had necrotizing enterocolitis, 88 patients (43%) had exploratory laparotomy, 67 with bowel resection. Of these, 50 needed transfusion of packed red blood cells in comparison with 17 who did not. Upon univariate analyses, patients who received packed red blood cells during surgery had significantly longer mean duration of surgery, lower preoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit, higher postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit, more platelet transfusions, and greater estimated blood loss than patients who did not receive packed red blood cells during surgery. A binary logistic regression procedure revealed that the need for preoperative hemoglobin was found to be a significant risk factor for transfusion of packed red blood cells (odds ratio = 0.55; 95%CI = 0.36-0.84; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Patients having necrotizing enterocolitis with bowel resection are more likely to need preoperative transfusion with packed red blood cells, which may be more necessary when surgery is longer, preoperative hematocrit is lower, and estimated blood loss is higher.

Impact of perioperative hyponatremia in children: A narrative review

For more than 50 years, hypotonic fluids (crystalloids) have been the standard for maintenance fluid used in children. In the last decade, several studies have evaluated the risk of hyponatremia associated with the use of hypotonic vs isotonic fluids, which has lead to an intense debate. Children undergoing surgery have several stimuli for release of antidiuretic hormone, which controls renal water handling, including pain, nausea, vomiting, narcotic use and blood loss. The body’s primary defense against the development of hyponatremia is the ability of the kidneys to excrete free water and dilute urine. Increased levels of antidiuretic hormone can result in hyponatremia, defined as a plasma sodium level < 136 mmol/L, which causes cells to draw in excess water and swell. This manifests as central nervous system symptoms such as lethargy, irritability and seizures. The risk for symptomatic hyponatremia is higher in children than in adults. It represents an emergency condition, and early diagnosis, prompt treatment and close monitoring are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality. The widespread use of hypotonic fluids in children undergoing surgery is a matter of concern and more focus on this topic is urgently needed. In this paper, we review the literature and describe the impact of perioperative hyponatremia in children.

A novel balanced isotonic sodium solution vs normal saline during major surgery in children up to 36 months: a multicenter RCT

BACKGROUND

The use of isotonic electrolytic solutions for the intraoperative fluid management in children is largely recognized, but the exact composition still needs to be defined.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this randomized controlled open trial was to compare the changes in chloride plasma concentration using two intraoperative isotonic fluid regimens (Sterofundin vs. normal saline, both added with 1% of glucose) in children undergoing major surgery. Secondary objectives were to compare changes in other electrolytes, renal function, and the occurrence of hypoglycemia.

METHODS

Children aged between 1 and 36 months, scheduled for major surgery, were randomized to receive Sterofundin or saline during the intraoperative time. Children with preoperative electrolyte abnormalities, hemodynamic instability, and severe renal or hepatic dysfunction were excluded. The primary outcome was the Δ of Cl(-) (Δ = change in plasma concentration between post- and pre-infusion), and secondary outcomes included Δ of other electrolytes and intraoperative hypoglycemia.

RESULTS

A total of 240 patients were included in the two study sites and randomized to receive Sterofundin plus 1% glucose or normal saline plus 1% glucose, in a open fashion (229 were finally analyzed). Δ of Cl- and Mg++ was statistically less relevant in patients who received intraoperative Sterofundin, and Δ of the other electrolytes was comparable between the two study groups. Relative risk of hyperchloremia was significantly higher when large volumes were infused (over than 46.7 ml·kg(-1) ), regardless of type of crystalloid infused. Hypoglycemia occurred in two of 229 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Sterofundin is safer than normal saline in protecting young children undergoing major surgery against the risk of increasing plasma chlorides and the subsequent metabolic acidosis.

Bleeding management for pediatric craniotomies and craniofacial surgery

Pediatric patients when undergoing craniotomies and craniofacial surgery may potentially have significant blood loss. The amount and extent will be dictated by the nature of the surgical procedure, the proximity to major blood vessels, and the age, and weight of the patient. The goals should be to maintain hemodynamic stability and oxygen carrying capacity and to prevent and treat hyperfibrinolysis and dilutional coagulopathy. Over transfusion and transfusion-related side effects should be minimized. This article will highlight the pertinent considerations for managing massive blood loss in pediatric patients undergoing craniotomies and craniofacial surgery. North American and European guidelines for intraoperative administration of fluid and blood products will be discussed.

Pediatric fasting times before surgical and radiologic procedures: benchmarking institutional practices against national standards

Prolonged preoperative fasting can be associated with adverse outcomes, particularly in children. Our aims were to assess the time pediatric patients fasted prior to surgical or radiologic procedures and evaluate whether fasting (NPO) orders complied with national guidelines. We measured NPO start time, time of last intake, and time test or surgery was scheduled, took place, or was cancelled in 219 pediatric patients. Findings demonstrate that pediatric patients experienced prolonged fasting before procedures and that the majority of NPO orders were non-compliant with national guidelines. We have developed strategies to reduce fasting times and ensure compliance with recommended national fasting standards.

Six percent hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 (Voluven®) versus 5% human serum albumin for volume replacement therapy during elective open-heart surgery in pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Although 5% albumin (human serum albumin [HSA]) is widely used in cardiac surgery children, synthetic colloids may provide a valuable alternative. This study compared 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4 with HSA for volume replacement in this population.

METHODS

The study was a two-center, randomized, controlled, parallel-group, double-blind trial performed in children aged 2-12 yr undergoing elective surgery for congenital heart disease under extracorporeal circulation. The primary objective was to demonstrate equivalence between HES and HSA with regard to the total volume of colloid infusion for intraoperative volume replacement including priming of the extracorporeal circuitery.

RESULTS

In the per-protocol population, mean volume of colloid required until end of surgery was (mean ± SD) 36.6 ± 11.8 ml/kg body weight in the HES group (N = 29) and 37.0 ± 11.9 ml/kg body weight in the HSA group (N = 26; ratio of means HES/HSA = 0.98 [95% CI, 0.84-1.16]). Intraoperative fluid balance was less positive in the HES group (P = 0.047). No difference was found regarding hemodynamics, the use of vasoactive and inotropic drugs. Blood loss, erythrocytes transfusion, and renal function were not different between groups. The incidence of adverse events up to postoperative day 28 did not differ between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In pediatric cardiac surgery, HES showed equivalence to HSA with regard to volume replacement therapy in children aged from 2 to 12 yr. Although there was no suggestion of an imbalance of safety measures between HES and HSA, the study was not powered to provide any firm conclusions about safety of tetrastarch in this population.

Fluid balance in late preterm infants with prenatal gastrointestinal pathology -a report of two cases-

Intestinal obstruction was diagnosed in two fetuses at maternal antenatal care. Both received emergency surgery on the day of their birth, at about 35 weeks gestational age. The disease progressed for a long time in both cases because prompt diagnosis and surgery are difficult to perform in utero. As a result, severe adhesion and distorted anatomy were observed in both cases. Massive third space losses and bleeding were predicted during the surgery. However, the accurate ongoing losses were difficult to anticipate. The assessment of fluid deficits cannot be based on measured losses alone, but hemodynamic status including blood pressure, heart rate, urine output, capillary refill, and/or central venous pressure should be evaluated additionally.

Postoperative decrease in plasma sodium concentration after infusion of hypotonic intravenous solutions in neonatal surgery

BACKGROUND

Hypotonic i.v. solutions can cause hyponatraemia in the context of paediatric surgery. However, this has not been demonstrated in neonatal surgery. The goal of this study was to define the relationship between infused perioperative free water and plasma sodium in neonates.

METHODS

Newborns up to 7 days old undergoing abdominal or thoracic surgery were included in this prospective, observational study. Collected data included type and duration of surgery, calculated i.v. free water intake, and pre- and postoperative plasma sodium. Statistical analyses were performed using the Pearson correlation, Mann-Whitney test, and receiver operating characteristic analysis with a 1000 time bootstrap procedure.

RESULTS

Thirty-four subjects were included. Postoperative hyponatraemia occurred in four subjects (11.9%). The difference between preoperative and postoperative plasma sodium measurements (ΔNaP) correlated with calculated free water intake during surgery (r=0.37, P=0.03), but not with preoperative free water intake. Calculated operative free water intake exceeding 6.5 ml kg(-1) h(-1) was associated with ΔNaP≥4 mM with a sensitivity and specificity [median (95% confidence interval)] of 0.7 (0.9-1) and 0.5 (0.3-0.7), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypotonic solutions and i.v. free water intake of more than 6.5 ml kg(-1) h(-1) are associated with reductions in postoperative plasma sodium measurements ≥4 mM. In the context of neonatal surgery, close monitoring of plasma sodium is mandatory. Routine use of hypotonic i.v. solutions during neonatal surgery should be questioned as they are likely to reduce plasma sodium.

Plethysmographic variability index (PVI) accuracy in predicting fluid responsiveness in anesthetized children

INTRODUCTION

Plethysmographic Variability Index (PVI) has been shown to accurately predict responsiveness to fluid loads in adults. The goal of this study was to evaluate PVI accuracy when predicting fluid responsiveness during noncardiac surgery in children.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Children aged 2-10 years scheduled for noncardiac surgery under general anesthesia were included. PVI was assessed concomitantly with stroke volume index (SVI). A response to fluid load was defined by an SVI increase of more than 15%. A 10 ml·kg(-1) normal saline intravenous fluid challenge was administered before surgical incision and after anesthetic induction. After incision, fluid challenges were administered when SVI values decreased by more than 15% or where judged necessary by the anesthesiologist. Statistical analyses include receiving operator characteristics (ROC) analysis and the determination of gray zone method with an error tolerance of 10%.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients were included, 97 fluid challenges administered and 45 responses recorded. Area under the curve of ROC curves was 0.85 [0.77-0.93] and 0.8 [0.7-0.89] for baseline PVI and SVI values, respectively. Corresponding gray zone limits were [10-17%] and [22-31 ml·m(-2)], respectively. PVI values exhibited different gray zone limits for pre-incision and postincision fluid challenges, whereas SVI values were comparable. PVI value percentages in the gray zone were 34% overall and 44% for challenges performed after surgical incision.

DISCUSSION

This study found both PVI and prechallenge SVI to be accurate when used to predict fluid load response during anesthetized noncardiac surgery in children. However, a third of recorded PVI values were inconclusive.

Goal-directed therapy in intraoperative fluid and hemodynamic management

Intraoperative fluid management is pivotal to the outcome and success of surgery, especially in high-risk procedures. Empirical formula and invasive static monitoring have been traditionally used to guide intraoperative fluid management and assess volume status. With the awareness of the potential complications of invasive procedures and the poor reliability of these methods as indicators of volume status, we present a case scenario of a patient who underwent major abdominal surgery as an example to discuss how the use of minimally invasive dynamic monitoring may guide intraoperative fluid therapy.

Vascular access, fluid resuscitation, and blood transfusion in pediatric trauma

Trauma care in the general population has largely become protocol-driven, with an emphasis on fast and efficient treatment, good team communication at all levels of care including prehospital care, initial resuscitation, intensive care, and rehabilitation. Most available literature on trauma care has focused on adults, allowing the potential to apply concepts from adult care to pediatric care. But there remain issues that will always be specific to pediatric patients that may not translate from adults. Several new devices such as intraosseous (IO) needle systems and techniques such as ultrasonography to cannulate central and peripheral veins have become available for integration into our pre-existing trauma care system for children. This review will focus specifically on the latest techniques and evidence available for establishing intravenous access, rational approaches to fluid resuscitation, and blood product transfusion in the pediatric trauma patient.

Basics of fluid and blood transfusion therapy in paediatric surgical patients

Perioperative fluid, electrolyte and blood transfusion therapy for infants and children can be confusing due the numerous opinions, formulas and clinical applications, which can result in a picture that is not practical and is often misleading. Perioperatively, crystalloids, colloids and blood components are required to meet the ongoing losses and for maintaining cardiovascular stability to sustain adequate tissue perfusion. Recently controversies have been raised regarding historically used formulas and practices of glucose containing hypotonic maintenance crystalloid solutions for perioperative fluid therapy in children. Paediatric intraoperative transfusion therapy, particularly the approach to massive blood transfusion (blood loss ≥ one blood volume) can be quite complex because of the unique relationship between the patient's blood volume and the volume of the individual blood product transfused. A meticulous fluid, electrolyte and blood transfusion management is required in paediatric patients perioperatively because of an extremely limited margin for error. This article reviews the basic concepts in perioperative fluid and blood transfusion therapy for paediatric patients, along with recent recommendations. For this review, Pubmed, Ovid MEDLINE, HINARI and Google scholar were searched without date restrictions. Search terms included the following in various combinations: Perioperative, fluid therapy, paediatrics, blood transfusion, electrolyte disturbances and guidelines. Only articles with English translation were used.

Intraoperative and postoperative hyponatremia with craniosynostosis surgery

BACKGROUND

  An alarming incidence of significant intraoperative hyponatremia during major pediatric craniofacial surgery has recently been reported, the mechanism of which is unclear.

AIMS

  To establish the incidence and severity of hyponatremia occurring during and after major craniofacial surgery for craniosynostosis in our institution and identify any associated risk factors.

METHODS

  Retrospective review of case notes and blood test results for all cases of major craniofacial surgery for craniosynostosis in children under 10 years of age from January 2007 to May 2011. Hyponatremia was classified as: mild 131-134 mmol·l(-1) ; moderate 126-130 mmol·l(-1) ; and, severe ≤125 mmol·l(-1) . Analyses were performed to look for factors associated with hyponatremia including gender, weight, syndromic or not, duration of procedure, and volumes of crystalloid, colloid and blood administered.

RESULTS

  One hundred and two consecutive cases were identified. Mild intraoperative hyponatremia occurred in five (5%) of children. There were no cases of moderate or severe intraoperative hyponatremia. All five had normal sodium values within two hours of their single low readings of 134 mmol.l(-1) and none had any subsequent episodes of hyponatremia in the postoperative period. Intraoperative hyponatremia was associated with lower body weight (P = 0.002). Mild postoperative hyponatremia on the day of surgery (POD0) occurred in three other children (3%) with no identifiable associations. There were no cases of moderate or severe postoperative hyponatremia on POD0. Hyponatremia on the first postoperative day (POD1) was mild in 23 children (24%) and moderate in one child (1%). There were no cases of severe postoperative hyponatremia on POD1. Hyponatraemia on POD1 was associated with male gender (P = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

  Clinically significant intraoperative hyponatremia was not a feature of major craniofacial surgery in our institution. Mild postoperative hyponatremia was relatively common on POD1.

Hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.42/6:1 for perioperative plasma volume replacement in 1130 children: results of an European prospective multicenter observational postauthorization safety study (PASS)

INTRODUCTION

Third-generation hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is now approved also for the use in children, but safety studies including large numbers of pediatric patients are still missing. Therefore, we performed an European multicentric prospective observational postauthorization safety study (PASS) to evaluate the use of HES 130/0.42/6:1 in normal saline (ns-HES) or a balanced electrolyte solution (bal-HES) in children undergoing surgery.

METHODS

Children aged up to 12 years with ASA risk scores of I-III receiving ns-HES (Venofundin 6%; Braun) or bal-HES (Tetraspan 6%; Braun) were followed perioperatively. Demographic data, surgical procedures performed, anesthesia, hemodynamic and laboratory data, adverse events (AE), and adverse drug reactions (ADR) were documented using a standardized case report form.

RESULTS

Of 1130 children studied at 11 European pediatric centers from 2006 to 2009 (ns-HES, 629 children; bal-HES, 475 children; mean age, 3.6 ± 3.8 [range, day of birth-12 years]; and body weight, 15.4 ± 13 [0.9-90 kg]), 1104 were included for analysis. The mean infused HES volume was 10.6 ± 5.8 (0.83-50) ml·kg(-1). In the 399 (36.1%) cases with blood gas analysis before and after HES infusion, hemoglobin and strong ion difference decreased significantly in both groups, whereas bicarbonate and base excess (BE before infusion: ns-HES -1.8 ± 3.1, bal-HES -1.2 ± 3.3 mm; after infusion: ns-HES -2.5 ± 2.8; bal-HES -1.1 ± 3.2 mm, P < 0.05) decreased only with ns-HES but remained stable with bal-HES. Chloride concentrations increased in both groups and were significantly higher with ns-HES (Cl before infusion: ns-HES 105.5 ± 3.6, bal-HES 104.9 ± 2.9 mm; Cl after infusion: ns-HES 107.6 ± 3.4, bal-HES 106.3 ± 2.9 mm, P < 0.05). For the AE/ADR rates, dose-response but no age relationships could be demonstrated. No serious and no severe ADR directly related to HES (i.e. anaphylactoid reaction, clotting disorders, renal failure) were observed.

CONCLUSION

Moderate doses of HES 130/0.42/6:1 for perioperative plasma volume replacement seem to be safe even in neonates and small infants. The probability of serious ADR is lower than 0.3%. Changes in acid-base balance may be decreased when HES is used in an acetate-containing balanced electrolyte solution instead of normal saline. Caution should be exercised in patients with renal function disturbances and those with an increased bleeding risk.

Von Willebrand disease in the United States: a perspective from Wisconsin

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is a common bleeding disorder with prevalence in the United States of 0.01 to 1% and a prevalence in the region around Milwaukee, Wisconsin, of at least 0.025%. Care of local patients with VWD primarily occurs through our comprehensive treatment centers, although some patients are managed solely by their primary care physician or community hematologist. Type 1 VWD is the most common subtype, with more females carrying this diagnosis than males. Diagnosis and treatment in general follows guidelines outlined by the National Institutes of Health. An ongoing study, the Zimmerman Program for the Molecular and Clinical Biology of VWD, is currently enrolling patients with all VWD subtypes across the United States to better delineate the extent of VWD and correlate bleeding symptoms with laboratory findings and VWF ( Von Willebrand factor) sequence variations. Results so far have shown that VWF gene polymorphisms are common, particularly in African Americans, and may affect laboratory assays of VWF function.

The efficacy of hypotonic and near-isotonic saline for parenteral fluid therapy given at low maintenance rate in preventing significant change in plasma sodium in post-operative pediatric patients: protocol for a prospective randomized non-blinded study

BACKGROUND

Hyponatremia is the most frequent electrolyte abnormality observed in post-operative pediatric patients receiving intravenous maintenance fluid therapy. If plasma sodium concentration (p-Na+) declines to levels below 125 mmol/L in < 48 h, transient or permanent brain damage may occur. There is an intense debate as to whether the administered volume (full rate vs. restricted rate of infusion) and the composition of solutions used for parenteral maintenance fluid therapy (hypotonic vs. isotonic solutions) contribute to the development of hyponatremia. So far, there is no definitive pediatric data to support a particular choice of parenteral fluid for maintenance therapy in post-surgical patients.

METHODS/DESIGN

Our prospective randomized non-blinded study will be conducted in healthy children and adolescents aged 1 to 14 years who have been operated for acute appendicitis. Patients will be randomized either to intravenous hypotonic (0.23% or 0.40% sodium chloride in glucose, respectively) or near-isotonic (0.81% sodium chloride in glucose) solution given at approximately three-fourths of the average maintenance rate. The main outcome of interest from this study is to evaluate 24 h post-operatively whether differences in p-Na+ between treatment groups are large enough to be of clinical relevance. In addition, water and electrolyte balance as well as regulatory hormones will be measured.

DISCUSSION

This study will provide valuable information on the efficacy of hypotonic and near-isotonic fluid therapy in preventing a significant decrease in p-Na+. Finally, by means of careful electrolyte and water balance and by measuring regulatory hormones our results will also contribute to a better understanding of the physiopathology of post-operative changes in p-Na+ in a population at risk for hyponatremia.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The protocol for this study is registered with the current controlled trials registry; registry number: ISRCTN43896775.

Perioperative management of blood glucose during open heart surgery in infants and children

The perioperative management of blood glucose has been controversial since clinical associations between hyperglycemia and adverse outcomes were first reported more than two decades ago. Despite some early evidence supporting a causal relationship between hyperglycemia and adverse outcomes, prospective trials of tight glycemic control have been inconclusive, except in selected populations, like adult diabetics. These trials have consistently reported dramatic increases in the incidence and severity of hypoglycemia, which may also have associated adverse outcomes. Bedside glucose monitors typically used to manage glucose have increasingly been found to introduce systematic inaccuracies. Relevant studies of infants and children undergoing cardiac surgery are considerably fewer in number, requiring clinicians to extrapolate from other clinical conditions and patient populations.

Quantitative analysis of continuous intravenous infusions in pediatric anesthesia: safety implications of dead volume, flow rates, and fluid delivery

OBJECTIVE

Quantitative characterization of continuous pediatric drug infusions.

BACKGROUND

The dynamics of drug delivery by continuous infusion to pediatric patients have not been systematically examined. This study extends previously described analytic models to propofol and remifentanil delivery, focusing on infants and toddlers. We postulated that infusion system dead volume, and drug and carrier flow rates, significantly influence drug delivery.

METHODS

We studied effects of patient weight, infusion system dead volume, drug and carrier flow rates, along with drug stock concentration and dose, on propofol and remifentanil delivery to the circulation. We calculated the drug mass available for inadvertent bolus in the dead volume, the volume of fluid supplied by drug infusions, and model-based estimates of the range of lag times to achieve a targeted steady-state rate of drug delivery.

RESULTS

The drug mass in the dead volume at steady state increased with dead volume size and drug dose. For infants, this drug mass could exceed 100% of commonly used loading doses. Predicted lag times to steady state depend on patient size, fluid flow rates, and the mixing behavior of the drug entering the main fluid pathway. Neonates have the longest lag times to achieve steady state. Fluid quantities delivered by drug infusions increase with drug flow rate and can represent a large fraction of estimated maintenance fluid requirements. Fluid delivery increases if stock drug concentrations are diluted. These relationships were qualitatively similar for propofol and remifentanil.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional studies focus on drug disposition once a drug enters the circulation. Our analysis shows the potential importance of factors influencing drug delivery to the patient's circulation, focusing on propofol and remifentanil administration to small patients. The drug mass available for inadvertent bolus residing in the reservoir of the dead volume at steady state may be large and clinically relevant. Lag times to achieve steady-state delivery are long, depending on the infusion system's architecture and fluid flow rates. By themselves, drug infusions can deliver significant fluid loads to children. These observations have practical and perhaps safety implications for infusions of drugs commonly administered to infants and children.