A comparison of hypertonic (7.2%) and isotonic (0.9%) saline for fluid resuscitation in horses: a randomized, double-blinded, clinical trial.

This research examines the effectiveness of hypertonic saline solution (7.2%) against isotonic saline solution (0.9%) on dehydrated horses. The findings demonstrate that hypertonic saline solution may produce faster rehydration but can also result in noticeable changes in electrolyte levels.

Objective and Methodology

• The purpose of this study was to determine if hypertonic saline solution (HSS), with a high concentration of saline at 7.2%, can offer a better rehydration rate in dehydrated horses compared to isotonic saline solution (ISS), which only has a 0.9% concentration.
• The research involved participation from endurance horses that were eliminated from a 100-mile endurance ride and required intravenous fluid therapy.
• A total of 22 horses were chosen randomly to receive 4 mL/kg of either the HSS or ISS plus 5 liters of lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS), a solution similar to body fluids used to replace fluids and electrolytes lost from the body. The horses were then administered with additional LRS in different quantities.
• Blood and urine samples were then taken before, during, and after treatment for a thorough comparison of the results. The data were then analyzed through a statistical method called two-way ANOVA with repeated measures.

Findings

• The study found that horses treated with HSS demonstrated larger decreases in PCV, total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations compared to those horses given ISS.
• Furthermore, the HSS group showed significantly higher increases in sodium and chloride.
• In terms of urination, the time to urination was shorter for horses under HSS treatment, and they also had a lower specific gravity than those treated with ISS.
• The observations suggest that HSS potentially provides faster restoration of intravascular volume deficits in dehydrated horses given emergency medical treatment.

Conclusion:

• The findings of the study indicate that although HSS can cause more rapid rehydration, usage of this solution is likely to induce marked electrolyte changes. Consequently, it implies the necessity to provide additional fluids after administering HSS.