Immune and inflammatory role of hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 and fluid gelatin in patients undergoing coronary surgery

Hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 reduced pro-inflammatory responses and increased anti-inflammatory responses to a greater degree than gelatin solution and isolyte S®. The use of hydroxyethyl starch, compared to gelatin solution and isolyte S®, resulted in less decrease in the CD4+:CD8+ ratio, suggesting less immunosuppression.