Abstract
The author attempted to discover the limits in the infusion of plasma expanders with special reference to the fulfilment of oxygen requirement, the effect on hemorrhagic tendency and the changes brought about on the circulating blood volume following the infusion.
Both whole blood and dxtran were used in amounts of 10-50cc/kg in exsanguination and transfusion.
The following results were obtained.
1) Dextran infusion increased the oxygen transport capacity due to the rapid increase in the volume of cardiac output.
2) Hemorrhagic tendency is aggravated, involving all clotting factors, when 50cc/kg are given, but with smaller amounts the coagulation time is shortened.
3) Fall of circulating blood volume is more marked with dextran than with whole blood, but no differences are found in the maintenance of blood pressure.
4) The restoration of circulating blood volume is not sufficient after 4 weeks of infusion whether dextran or whole blood be used.
5) The limit of plasma expander appears to be 30cc/kg in respect to anemic anoxia.
6) With respect to hemorrhagic tendency the limit is 40cc/kg.
7) For the purpose of life-saving measures the therapeutic limit is 50cc/kg.
