The Effects of Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 (6%) on Blood Loss and Use of Blood Products in Major Surgery: A Pooled Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

Blood loss and transfusion requirements can be significantly reduced in major surgery when using third generation HES 130/0.4 (Voluven) compared to second generation waxy maize starch HES 200/0.5. Since HES 130/0.4 and HES 200/0.5 were found similar regarding volume efficacy in other studies, HES 130/0.4 is recommended in this clinical setting.