Effects of intravenously administered solutions on electrolytes and energy substrates during surgery

The comparative effects of three kinds of intravenous infusion and of no infusion were studied in 20 patients during and after abdominal operation. Plasma concentrations of electrolytes were little different in patients receiving lactated Ringer’s solution or 5 per cent dextrose in water at a rate of 300 ml/hr. Patients receiving 5 per cent dextrose, in water or in lactated Ringer’s solution, gave evidence of greater glucose metabolism and less lipid utilization than did patients receiving lactated Ringer’s or no solution.