Comparison of glucose and sucrose as an indicator for dilution volumetry in haemorrhagic shock.

A new technique for dilution volumetry using glucose as an indicator is proposed. The initial distribution volume of glucose (Vdgluc) was calculated in 11 adult mongrel dogs using a one-compartment model, and Vdgluc was then compared with the initial distribution volume of sucrose (Vdsucr), which is less metabolized. Insulin concentrations in the plasma were measured to calculate the insulinogenic index. The Vdgluc and the Vdsucr at baseline and after induced haemorrhagic shock (30 mL kg-1) were calculated. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.84, n = 22, P < 0.001) between Vdgluc and Vdsucr, but not between Vdgluc and the insulinogenic index. The limits of agreement ( +/- 2SD) between the two methods were +0.32 to -0.08L. Vdgluc indicates the volume of the central compartment, but cannot replace Vdsucr for clinical purposes. Glucose can be used repeatedly as an indicator for easy and safe dilution volumetry in vivo.