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

Background: 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. Methods: 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. Results: 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 ≥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 ≥1 litre fluid generally reduced postoperative drowsiness and dizziness, while the effects on postoperative nausea, vomiting and thirst has not been clarified. Conclusion: 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.