Injured children are resistant to the adverse effects of early high volume crystalloid resuscitation

IntroductionExcessive crystalloid resuscitation of blunt injured adults is deleterious. We hypothesize that children, unlike adults, are resistant to the adverse effects of high volume resuscitation.MethodsWe reviewed the trauma databases at two level-one trauma centers, including all children age 4–16 years admitted following blunt trauma with an injury severity score (ISS) ≥ 15 to determine the relationship between crystalloid volume received and clinical outcomes.ResultsA total of 384 children were included. After controlling for age, sex, AIS head, ISS, GCS on presentation, hemoglobin, blood transfusion, and surgical procedures in the first 24 hours, crystalloid volume greater than 60 ml/kg in the first 24 hours was associated with increased length of stay (LOS) and need for mechanical ventilation. On univariate analysis, initial crystalloid volume of > 60 ml/kg was associated with anemia and thrombocytopenia. Volume of resuscitation was not associated with ARDS, ACS, MOF, urinary tract infection, or blood stream infection. However, these complications were exceedingly rare, with no children developing MOF.ConclusionsExcessive crystalloid resuscitation was associated with increased hospital LOS and need for mechanical ventilation. Increased rates of other complications including ARDS, ACS, and MOF were not observed. Injured children appear relatively resistant to some of the adverse effects of early high volume fluid resuscitation.