[Bases of infusional therapy. Note. I. Fluid balance]

The complex hydroelectrolytic problem is examined by a study of the physiology and physiopathology of fluids, electrolytes and proteins. A number of interesting critical and clinical problems of use in the pre- and postoperative treatment of surgical patients and in cases where a change in the hydroelectric balance takes place, are involved. Therapy is facilitated if needs are calculated on the basis of the three basic principles: 1) daily physiological need; 2) replacement of physiological losses; 3) elimination of the existing deficiency.