Colloids vs crystalloids

The choice of colloid or crystalloid solutions for resuscitation of a patient in shock remains controversial. Colloids quickly restore plasma volume along with stabilizing hemodynamics. Almost the entire volume is retained within the vascular space after 1 hour. However, only 8 percent of infused water and less than 25 percent of infused saline are retained in intravascular fluid compartments after 1 hour. When using crystalloids for resuscitation, two to four times as much fluid is required for fluid repletion. The very young or old or persons with cardiac or renal dysfunction may have an increased risk of developing pulmonary edema when crystalloids are administered.