Prediction of stroke volume response to fluid bolus in 100 children

Introduction

Fluid overload is associated with poor outcome in the critically ill. Thus, an accurate predictor of a positive haemodynamic response (increase in stroke volume) to fluid challenge is vital.

Methods

We studied the predictive value (positive response defined as change in stroke volume >15% after 10 ml/kg fluid bolus) of a range of haemodynamic variables: static (CVP, active circulating volume, central blood volume, total end diastolic volume), dynamic (systolic pressure variation, stroke volume variation) and contactility (dp/dt), in a group of 100 ventilated children (median weight 10 kg). Variables were measured using transpulmonary ultrasound dilution and PRAM (an arterial pulse contour method).

Results

We performed 168 paired measurements (pre-fluid and post-fluid challenge), with a SV response rate of 45%. Overall predictive values were poor, but slightly better for static versus dynamic variables (Table 1). When SV response was analysed as a continuous variable, the two predictive multivariable variables were change in TEDVI and baseline dp/dt (r ² = 0.30, both P < 0.001).

Table 1 ROC areas for haemodynamic variables

Conclusion

The predictive ability for typical static and dynamic haemodynamic variables, when taken in isolation, is poor. However, improved prediction is seen when baseline contractility is taken into account.