Comparison of fluid types for resuscitation after acute blood loss in mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos)

Objective – The purpose of this study was to determine the LD₅₀ for acute blood loss in mallard ducks ( Anas platyrhynchos ), compare the mortality rate among 3 fluid resuscitation groups, and determine the time required for a regenerative RBC response.
Design – Prospective study.
Setting – Medical College of Wisconsin Research facility.
Animals – Eighteen mallard ducks were included for the LD₅₀ study and 28 for the fluid resuscitation study.
Interventions – Phlebotomy was performed during both the LD₅₀ and fluid resuscitation studies. Ducks in the fluid resuscitation study received a 5 mL/kg intravenous bolus of crystalloids, hetastarch (HES), or a hemoglobin-based oxygen-carrying solution (HBOCS).
Measurements and Main Results – The LD₅₀ for acute blood loss was 60% of total blood volume. This blood volume was removed in the fluid resuscitation study to create a model of acute blood loss. Following fluid administration, 6 birds in the crystalloid group (66%), 4 birds in the HES group (40%), and 2 birds in the HBOCS group (20%) died. No statistical difference in mortality rate was seen among the 3 fluid resuscitation groups. Relative polychromasia evaluated post-phlebotomy demonstrated regeneration starting at 24 hours and continuing through 48 hours.
Conclusions – The LD₅₀ for acute blood loss in mallard ducks was 60% of their total blood volume. Although no statistical difference in mortality rate was appreciated among the 3 fluid resuscitation groups, a trend of decreased mortality rate was observed in the HBOCS group. An early regenerative response was apparent following acute blood loss.