Individualized early goal-directed therapy in systemic inflammation: is full utilization of preload reserve the optimal strategy?

Objectives: In severe acute pancreatitis, the administration of fluids in the presence of positive fluid responsiveness is associated with better outcome when compared to guiding therapy on central venous pressure. We compared the effects of such consequent maximization of stroke volume index with a regime using individual values of stroke volume index assessed prior to severe acute pancreatitis induction as therapeutic hemodynamic goals.

Design: Prospective, randomized animal study.