Compensatory fluid administration for preoperative dehydration--does it improve outcome?

Preoperative fasting may lead to a fluid deficit of about 1 litre, which may contribute to perioperative discomfort and morbidity. We therefore examined the association between perioperatively administered fluids aiming to correct dehydration and clinical outcome.

Review of randomized, controlled, clinical trials evaluating clinical outcome, in which fluid versus no fluid was administered pre- or intraoperatively, attempting to correct preoperative fluid deficits. Data were obtained from a Medline search (1966-2001), and references cited in original papers. Seventeen trials met the inclusion criteria.

Based on the amount of fluid administered, we divided the studies into two groups. In nine studies, fluid administration was <1 litre, and in eight studies > or =1 litre of fluid was administered. Administration of low-dose fluid reduced preoperative thirst, but the limited data do not allow conclusions on postoperative outcome such as nausea, vomiting, headache and pain. Administration of > or =1 litre fluid generally reduced postoperative drowsiness and dizziness, while the effects on postoperative nausea, vomiting and thirst has not been clarified.

Fluid administration to compensate preoperative dehydration improves symptoms related to dehydration. Based on the available data, administration of about 1 litre fluid pre- or intraoperatively in patients having fasted for minor surgical procedures seems rational.