Effect of Different Albumin Concentrations in Extracorporeal Circuit Prime on Perioperative Fluid Status in Young Children

This study examined the effects of different dosages of albumin priming for extracorporeal circuit (ECC) on perioperative fluid status and fluid management in young children. A total of 151 consecutive pediatric patients (2–36 months old) scheduled for open heart surgery, were divided into two groups randomly, to receive either a 3% albumin solution (L group, n = 68) or a 5% albumin (H group, n = 83). Perioperative fluid intake, urine output, blood loss, diuretic dosage, the use of allogeneic blood products, ultrafiltration, and daily balance were recorded for 24 hrs in intensive care unit (ICU). Serial hematocrits, colloid osmotic pressure (COP) were measured. Outcomes and complications were documented. There were no significant differences in demographics, types of surgical procedures, baseline data such as hemoglobin, COP, and serum albumin. Patients in H group had significantly higher COPs, less urine output and more diuretic usage during operation and postoperatively (p < 0.05); at 6 hrs postoperatively, there were no differences between two groups. No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in blood loss and the amount of allogenic blood products infused, length of mechanical ventilation, ICU or hospital stay, complications, or mortality. Higher concentration of albumin prime in ECC showed decreased positive fluid balances, but produced less urine output and required more diuretic usage postoperatively. Thus, no significant clinical benefit resulted from the increased dosage.