Irina Son

Date of Award

6-2013

Document Type

Independent Study

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Many patients undergoing surgical procedures require intravenous fluid replacement with a colloid volume expander. It is a well-known fact that the choice of intravenous fluid therapy may impact postoperative outcomes in both positive and 4 negative ways (Topcu et al., 2012). In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of 6% Hetastarch 130/0.4, also known as Voluven, to treat hypovolemia. This product was introduced to the anesthesia practice as a promising volume expander, carrying minimal side effects such as renal failure or coagulopathy . However, over the past few years multiple studies have been performed to test Voluven's safety profile and its efficacy. The results appear to be inconsistent and inconclusive when compared with the drug manufacture's safety profile. A broad and detailed analysis of the review of literature to explore advantages and disadvantages of Voluven has been completed. The search was performed utilizing a medical database from the Harley E . French online library located at the University of North Dakota. Findings include that Voluven has variable effects on different patient groups depending on their condition and type of surgery they undergo. Moreover, the evidence gathered pinpoints to a lack of available research. Dissemination of the findings is to provide anesthesia practitioners with the most current research in order to make knowledgeable clinical decisions concerning use of 6% Hetastarch 130/0.4 in their practice. Future investigation utilizing larger sample groups on Voluven efficacy and safety profile is essential. Also, education on use ofVoluven presents as an ongoing learning process until a firm policy on its use is established .

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