Comparison of fluid types for resuscitation after acute blood loss in mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos).
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the LD(50) for acute blood loss in mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos), compare the mortality rate among 3 fluid resuscitation groups, and determine the time required for a regenerative RBC response.


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
Medical College of Wisconsin Research facility.


METHODS
Eighteen mallard ducks were included for the LD(50) study and 28 for the fluid resuscitation study.


METHODS
Phlebotomy was performed during both the LD(50) and fluid resuscitation studies. Ducks in the fluid resuscitation study received a 5 mL/kg intravenous bolus of crystalloids, hetastarch (HES), or a hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solution (HBOCS).


RESULTS
The LD(50) for acute blood loss was 60% of total blood volume. This blood volume was removed in the fluid resuscitation study to create a model of acute blood loss. Following fluid administration, 6 birds in the crystalloid group (66%), 4 birds in the HES group (40%), and 2 birds in the HBOCS group (20%) died. No statistical difference in mortality rate was seen among the 3 fluid resuscitation groups. Relative polychromasia evaluated post-phlebotomy demonstrated regeneration starting at 24 hours and continuing through 48 hours.


CONCLUSIONS
The LD(50) for acute blood loss in mallard ducks was 60% of their total blood volume. Although no statistical difference in mortality rate was appreciated among the 3 fluid resuscitation groups, a trend of decreased mortality rate was observed in the HBOCS group. An early regenerative response was apparent following acute blood loss.
Lichtenberger
Marla
M
Milwaukee Emergency Clinic for Animals and Referral Services, Greenfield, WI 53228, USA. marlavet@aol.com
Orcutt
Connie
C
Cray
Carolyn
C
Thamm
Douglas H
DH
DeBehnke
Daniel
D
Page
Cheryl
C
Mull
Lori
L
Kirby
Rebecca
R
D000818:Animals; D000077324:Crystalloid Solutions; D004372:Ducks; D005260:Female; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D006454:Hemoglobins / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D006895:Hydroxyethyl Starch Derivatives / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007552:Isotonic Solutions / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D012771:Shock, Hemorrhagic
D000077324:Crystalloid Solutions; D006454:Hemoglobins; D006895:Hydroxyethyl Starch Derivatives; D007552:Isotonic Solutions; C402601:hemoglobin glutamer-200