Effects of haemodilution and rewarming with regard to digital amputation in frostbite injury: an experimental study in the rabbit.

Peripheral vascular failure with haematological and haemodynamic changes occurs after frostbite injuries. In order to study the effects of normovolemic haemodilution on the extent of digital necrosis, the paws of rabbits were haemodiluted and frozen to -15 degrees C. Dextran or gelatin was used as the plasma substitute in two groups and the rewarming after the cold injury was performed either at room temperature (22 degrees C) or with hot water baths (38 degrees C). The extent of necrosis was significantly less in the rabbits haemodiluted with dextran or gelatin and rewarmed in hot water baths. Copyright 2002 The British Society for Surgery of the Hand.