University of Washington physicians based at Harborview Medical Center believe that a new intravenous fluid has the potential to improve accident victims’ chances of survival. The fluid is a concentrated salt solution with or without a sugar component called Hypertonic Saline/Dextran (HSD). Hypertonic fluids are expected to help accident victims survive by resulting in more rapid improvement of blood pressure, improved blood flow to the injured brain and decreased likelihood of high pressure in the brain. They may also decrease the risk of infection and lung injury by altering the immune response.
HSD is going to be tested over the next three years. It may prove vital in helping persons who have suffered serioius personal injuries. Seattle is at the forefront of HSD testing and other medical advances designed to help reduce injuries and death in auto and other types of accidents.
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