[A comparative study of the effectiveness of 5% human albumin and 10% hydroxyethyl starch (HAES-steril) for correcting hemodynamics and O2 transport in surgical interventions].

Forty patients subjected to cavitary operations were examined. A high risk of hemodynamic disorders necessitated invasive monitoring; with this aim in view a catheter was inserted for measuring arterial pressure and the Swan-Ganz catheter for measuring the pressure in the pulmonary artery, in which helped monitor the hemodynamics and oxygen transport in the course of hypervolemic hemodilution. Plasma substitutes (one of two) were selected at random. After catheterization of the left radial artery and insertion of the Swan-Ganz catheter in the pulmonary artery through the internal right jugular vein the patients were infused either 5% human albumin or 10% hydroxyethyl starch in a dose of 125 ml every 5 min. The parameters of hemodynamics and oxygen transport were recorded after 500 ml of the solution was infused and the wedge pressure of 18 mm Hg attained. Both agents appreciably improved the mean arterial pressure, central nervous pressure, and wedge pressure. Cardiac index, left ventricular output, and stroke volume increased in both groups, and the pulmonary vascular resistance decreased. Both agents improved oxygen utilization and appreciably decreased hemoglobin level. The positive effect of hydroxyethyl starch on cardiac index, pulmonary vascular resistance, left ventricular output, and oxygen utilization was more expressed; moreover, a lesser dose of this drug was needed than of 5% human albumin (Behringwerke, Marburg, Germany). Loss of plasma caused by surgical intervention was better compensated for with synthetic colloid solutions, such as 10% HAES-steril (Fresinium, Oberurzel, Germany), provided that plasma protein level was at least 3-4 g/dl. The effect of 10% HAES-steril as regards the increase of circulating blood volume is 145%. Due to the hyperoncotic direction of its action it has a positive impact on the hemodynamics and oxygen transport and is needed in lower doses than other colloid solutions.