Comparative Trial of Continuous Flow Enteral and Intravenous Fluid Therapy in Horses

Abstract

Continuous flow enteral fluid therapy with isotonic and hypotonic enteral electrolyte solutions are as safe and effective as intravenous fluid therapy. The aim of this study was to carry out a comparative assessment between continuous flow enteral and intravenous (IV) fluid therapy in adult experimentally dehydrated horses. Six experimentally dehydrated adult mares were used in a study carried out in a 6 × 3 crossover design, which each animal received three different treatments (isotonic enteral fluid therapy—EsISO, hypotonic enteral fluid therapy—EsHYPO and intravenous fluid therapy with Lactate Ringer Solution—LR IV, all in continuous flow). Solutions were administered at a rate of 15 mL−1.kg−1.h−1 for 8 h, after 36 h of water and food deprivation. Serum and urinary biochemical assessment; urinary volume, pH and specific gravity; and blood gas analysis were measured at −36, 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h. The dehydration period (DP) caused discrete hydroelectrolytic and acid base imbalances. The EsISO, EsHYPO and LR IV increased blood volume. Enteral solutions restored the imbalances yielded by the DP and all treatments increased urine volume. Also, the EsHYPO and LR IV showed no effects in acid base balance, while EsISO showed slightly acidifying effect. The present study certifies the efficacy and safety of isotonic and hypotonic continuous flow enteral fluid therapy in comparison to IV fluid therapy in dehydrated horses.

Enteral hydration in cows: Comparison between continuous flow and bolus administration

“…This hydration method is particularly recommended in this species because of the reduced volumetric capacity of the stomach. Electrolyte solutions can be administered continuously for long periods, which makes it possible to infuse large volumes without causing discomfort 4,5,8 …”

“…2,3 The enteral hydration technique through the nasoesophageal route using a small-calibre tube, in which fluid administration is gradual in a continuous flow (CF), has provided satisfactory results in horses, [4][5][6][7] and its effectiveness is similar to that of intravenous infusion. 4,5,8 This hydration method is particularly recommended in this species because of the reduced volumetric capacity of the stomach. Electrolyte solutions can be administered continuously for long periods, which makes it possible to infuse large volumes without causing discomfort.…”

“…Electrolyte solutions can be administered continuously for long periods, which makes it possible to infuse large volumes without causing discomfort. 4,5,8 Unlike horses, the rumen of adult cattle can have a volumetric capacity that varies from 13% to 17% of their bodyweight (BW) 9 and can hold high volumes of electrolyte solution. For this reason, although enteral hydration in CF is an interesting alternative to volume replacement in these animals, [10][11][12][13] bolus (B) administration could be considered equally effective.…”