Effects of hypertonic saline solution (20%) on cardiodynamics during hemorrhagic shock.

The cardiodynamic effects of using hypertonic saline solution were analyzed in dogs after inducing hemorrhagic shock. Administration of 1.5 mL/kg 20% sodium chloride resulted in circulatory improvement: 200% increase in blood pressure, 260% increase in cardiac output, 60-70% increase in pulmonary arterial pressure, 66% increase in pulmonary wedge pressure, 200% increase in central venous pressure, 33% decrease in total peripheral resistance, and 40% decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance. The effects of sodium chloride on cardiodynamics probably resulted in elevation of preload and reduction of afterload.