Colloids vs. crystalloids--a continuing controversy

The crystalloid vs. colloid controversy is based on a disagreement as to the most effective, safest, and most economical method of maintaining an effective plasma volume in shock patients. This review discusses Starling's law of fluid movement, with a definition of each term in the normal physiological state, and presents examples of how each component of Starling's law differs in the two major types of pulmonary edema: (1) cardiogenic and (2) noncardiogenic. The colloid-crystalloid literature is reviewed briefly with an emphasis on the major studies that support each side, and the deficiencies in each study. The arguments supporting each side of the crystalloid-colloid debate are then listed, with a summary that demonstrates the areas of agreement between the two schools of thought on fluid resuscitation. Each major colloid (albumin, dextran, hetastarch) and a representative crystalloid (lactated Ringer's) are discussed in terms of their chemistry; pharmacology and indications; and precautions, adverse reactions, and side effects. A table is included that summarizes the available products' data regarding composition, volume expansion, duration of expansion, half-life, metabolism, elimination, precautions, adverse reactions, and dose.