A physiological approach to fluid and electrolyte therapy in the horse.
Abstract: In this article a physiological approach to fluid therapy is discussed, commencing with examination of fluid distribution in the normal horse. The functions of individual plasma electrolyte concentrations are considered and practical causes of acid-base disturbances discussed. When fluid administration is necessary, selection of the route for fluid administration as well as the type of fluid are important considerations and these must be adjusted to the needs of the individual case. Balanced polyionic solutions appear to be most suitable for general use because normal saline can produce hypokalaemia and metabolic acidosis. The use of bicarbonate is indicated mainly where there has been alkali loss (eg, diarrhoea) or severe acidosis associated with increased lactate production. Plasma volume expanders, such as dextran or gelatin polymers, can be considered where a rapid and prolonged restoration of blood volume is required. Fluids should be warmed to body temperature before administration and flow rates up to 6 to 8 litres/h may be safely used. A plan for fluid therapy involves the estimation of existing fluids, as an average horse will require almost 84,000 kJ continuing losses should be estimated and corrected. Maintenance of calorific requirements is difficult using intravenous fluids, as an average horse will require almost 84,000 kJ (20,000 kcal) per day. Lipid emulsions provide up to 8370 kJ/litre but their expense precludes the use of large volumes.
Publication Date: 1981-01-01 PubMed ID: 7016529DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1981.tb03439.xGoogle Scholar: Lookup
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Summary
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This research article focuses on the physiological approach to fluid and electrolyte therapy in horses. The study examines how fluid distribution, plasma electrolyte concentrations, acid-base imbalances, and choice of fluid administration route and type can impact fluid therapy for horses in different health situations.
Fluid Distribution
- The study begins by discussing the distribution of fluids in a healthy horse. Understanding this distribution is critical because it underlies how the horse’s body will respond to fluid therapy.
- Further research is required to accurately estimate the existing fluids in an individual horse.
Plasma Electrolyte Concentrations
- The functions of individual plasma electrolyte concentrations are also reviewed. These electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, play vital roles in maintaining the horse’s bodily functions.
- Changes in these concentrations can cause various health issues, and fluid therapy can be used to correct imbalances.
Acid-Base Imbalances
- Practical reasons for the occurrence of acid-base imbalances in a horse’s body are examined in the research.
- Fluid therapy can also address these imbalances. For example, bicarbonate might be administered in cases of alkaline losses like diarrhoea or instances of severe acidosis.
Route and Type of Fluid Administration
- The route and type of fluid administration should be chosen according to the needs of the individual horse and the health condition it is facing. Options include normal saline and balanced polyionic solutions.
- While normal saline can cause hypokalaemia and metabolic acidosis, balanced polyionic solutions may be more suitable for general use.
- In some cases, plasma volume expanders, like dextran or gelatin polymers, might be employed to rapidly and sustainably replenish blood volume.
Rate and Temperature of Fluid Administration
- The fluids should be warmed to body temperature before administration to ease absorption and minimise shock to the horse’s system.
- The study suggests a safe flow rate of 6 to 8 litres per hour.
Maintenance of Caloric Requirements
- The maintenance of calorific requirements using intravenous fluids can be tricky, as an average horse requires around 84,000 kJ (20,000 kcal) per day.
- The study noted that lipid emulsions could offer up to 8370 kJ per litre but are costly, obstructing the usage of large volumes.
Cite This Article
APA
Rose RJ.
(1981).
A physiological approach to fluid and electrolyte therapy in the horse.
Equine Vet J, 13(1), 7-14.
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1981.tb03439.x Publication
Researcher Affiliations
MeSH Terms
- Acid-Base Equilibrium
- Animals
- Bicarbonates / administration & dosage
- Body Water / metabolism
- Chlorides / administration & dosage
- Colic / therapy
- Colic / veterinary
- Diarrhea / therapy
- Diarrhea / veterinary
- Extracellular Space / metabolism
- Fluid Therapy / methods
- Fluid Therapy / veterinary
- Horse Diseases / therapy
- Horses / metabolism
- Horses / physiology
- Osmolar Concentration
- Plasma Substitutes / administration & dosage
- Potassium / administration & dosage
- Potassium / metabolism
- Sodium / metabolism
Citations
This article has been cited 1 times.- Lindroth KM, Dicksved J, Vervuert I, Müller CE. Chemical composition and physical characteristics of faeces in horses with and without free faecal liquid - two case-control studies.. BMC Vet Res 2022 Jan 3;18(1):2.
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