The use of hypertonic solutions in sepsis

SummaryFluid therapy is a key component in the treatment of patients with septic shock. Recent data suggests that hypertonic fluid administration in sepsis may have beneficial effects on the global circulation and the cardiac function that exceed simple intravascular volume expansion. In addition, hypertonic resuscitation may exert specific effects on inflammatory pathways and endothelial function.This review summarizes the current knowledge on this topic and highlights the need for further research to translate some of the promising observations into relevant patient centred outcomes.