Equal effects of gelatin and hydroxyethyl starch (6% HES 130/0.42) on modified thrombelastography in children

Artificial colloids are frequently used to prevent or treat circulatory failure due to hypovolaemia. Whereas gelatin has been shown not to affect coagulation besides its haemodilutional effect, hydroxyethyl starches (HES) have additional negative effects on haemostasis. The third-generation HES solutions have been developed to minimise these effects. We therefore conducted a prospective, randomised study, to verify the hypothesis that a 6% HES 130/0.42/6 : 1 and a 4% gelatin infusion influences modified thrombelastography (TEM) parameters in children in the same manner and to the same extent.

A total of 50 paediatric patients aged 0-12 years scheduled for surgery were assigned to receive either 10 ml/kg HES 130/0.42 or gelatin. Blood gas analysis, haemodynamic parameters and TEM measurements were performed before and after colloid administration.

Patient characteristics, indications/surgical procedures and the main results obtained from blood gas analysis were comparable between the two groups. After administration of either gelatin or HES, all TEM parameters, except for clotting time, indicated impaired coagulation whereas the mean values of all TEM parameters remained within the normal ranges. Comparing the gelatin and HES 130/0.42/6 : 1 groups, none of the measured TEM parameters was found to show between-group differences at baseline or after colloid infusion.

In conclusion, we could demonstrate that the investigational product, HES 130/0.42/6 : 1 solution, administered at a dosage of 10 ml/kg to children, had comparable effects on coagulation monitored with TEM as a gelatin solution. Perioperative administration of HES 130/0.42/6 : 1 does not alter coagulation to an extent above and beyond the effect of haemodilution.