Is albumin administration in hypoalbuminemic elderly cardiac surgery patients of benefit with regard to inflammation, endothelial activation, and long-term kidney function?

Background: Because patients with low albumin levels may benefit from human albumin (HA) administration, we studied correction of hypovolemia with HA in hypoalbuminic elderly cardiac surgery patients.

Methods: In a prospective, randomized study, 50 patients aged >80 yr undergoing cardiac surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass with a preoperative serum albumin concentration of <3.5 mg/dL, received either 5% HA (n = 25) or hydroxyethyl starch (6% HES 130/0.

Comparison of the effects of gelatin and a modern hydroxyethyl starch solution on renal function and inflammatory response in elderly cardiac surgery patients.

Background: The effects of hydroxyethylstarch (HES) 130/0.4 6% and gelatin 4% on inflammation, endothelial integrity, and renal function after cardiac surgery were compared.

Methods: Sixty patients aged >80 yr undergoing cardiac surgery were randomized to receive gelatin (n=30) or HES 130/0.