Effects of Intraoperative Gelatin on Blood Viscosity and Oxygenation Balance

Abstract

Purpose: We aim to investigate whether hemortheology and oxygenation balance are affected by intraoperative gelatin infusion, whether it poses a threat to the perioperative well-being of the patients, and thus creates difficult conditions for postanesthesia care.

Design: A randomized controlled clinical trial.

Methods: After anesthesia induction, 10 ml/kg succinylated gelatin was infused. Arterial blood gas analysis was performed, and whole blood viscosity and vital signs were recoded both before and after the infusion.

Findings: High shear and medium shear viscosities decreased (P = .003 and P = .04, respectively) after the infusion of both gelatin and Ringer's lactate. The peripheral vascular resistance was not significantly changed by the infusion of either fluid (P = .31). Ringer's lactate reduces the body's oxygen delivery index (P = .01).

Conclusions: Gelatin better maintains blood viscosity and stabilizes the body's oxygenation balance.

Keywords: blood viscosity; hemortheology; oxygenation balance; perioperative care; vascular resistance.