Crystalloids versus colloids: the end of an old debate?: CRYSTALLOIDS VERSUS COLLOIDS

Abstract

SUMMARY The ‘ideal’ plasma substitute for volume replacement remains a matter of dispute. Merits and demerits of colloids versus crystalloids for volume replacement have been discussed very emotionally. Are we any wiser concerning the crystalloid/colloid problem? Recently published meta-analyses or evidence-based medicine analyses appear to be less helpful to solve this problem. Conflicting results from different studies are most likely as a result of variations in clinical protocols, selection of patients, criteria for blood or volume administration. With their conflicting results more questions arise than answers are given.