Liberal versus restrictive fluid administration to improve recovery after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized, double-blind study.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of 2 levels of intraoperative fluid administration on perioperative physiology and outcome after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.


BACKGROUND
Intraoperative fluid administration is variable as a result of limited knowledge of physiological and clinical effects of different fluid substitution regimens.


METHODS
In a double-blind study, 48 ASA I-II patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized to 15 mL/kg (group 1) or 40 mL/kg (group 2) intraoperative administration of lactated Ringer's solution (LR). All other aspects of perioperative management as well as preoperative fluid status were standardized. Primary outcome parameters were assessed repeatedly for the first 24 postoperative hours and included pulmonary function (spirometry), exercise capacity (submaximal treadmill test), cardiovascular hormonal responses, balance function, pain, nausea and vomiting, recovery, and hospital stay.


RESULTS
Intraoperative administration of 40 mL/kg compared with 15 mL/kg LR led to significant improvements in postoperative pulmonary function and exercise capacity and a reduced stress response (aldosterone, antidiuretic hormone, and angiotensin II). Nausea, general well-being, thirst, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and balance function were also significantly improved, as well as significantly more patients fulfilled discharge criteria and were discharged on the day of surgery with the high-volume fluid substitution.


CONCLUSIONS
Intraoperative administration of 40 mL/kg compared with 15 mL/kg LR improves postoperative organ functions and recovery and shortens hospital stay after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Holte
Kathrine
K
Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark. kathrine.holte@dadlnet.dk
Klarskov
Birthe
B
Christensen
Dorte Stig
DS
Lund
Claus
C
Nielsen
Kristine Grubbe
KG
Bie
Peter
P
Kehlet
Henrik
H
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D017081:Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D017079:Exercise Tolerance; D005260:Female; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007430:Intraoperative Care; D007552:Isotonic Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D020250:Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting; D004856:Postural Balance; D012123:Pulmonary Ventilation; D000077325:Ringer's Lactate
D007552:Isotonic Solutions; D000077325:Ringer's Lactate