Are lactated Ringer’s solution and normal saline solution equal with regard to coagulation?

This study compares the perioperative effects of a saline crystalloid and a more balanced and buffered electrolyte crystalloid on clotting. The differences thought to be related to blood clotting that one would anticipate in such a study would that the saline treated patients would become more acidotic and have lower ionized calcium. Therefore, in interpreting the results of this interesting study please note that metabolic acidosis was treated with the administration of bicarbonate and that TEGs were performed on citrated and re-calcified blood samples.

– M. Mythen.