Bio Impedance Monitoring as a Tool to Assess Fluid Status in the Pediatric Surgical Patient: Can we Measure a Fluid Shift

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of bio impedance spectroscopy to monitor fluid shifts in children undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. The study addresses whether the traditional 'Holliday and Segar' rule for fluid infusion rates during surgery is outdated, given it was based on caloric needs from cow milk. This pilot study aims to validate bio impedance measurements as a tool to assess fluid status in pediatric surgical patients. The study uses the Body Composition Monitor (BCM), a device that non-invasively measures body fluid compartments by sending low and high-frequency electrical currents through the body. Electrodes are placed on the hands and feet to gather data, which is analyzed to determine total body water and extracellular water volumes. Measurements are taken before surgery and after surgery at different time points depending on if the child is an outpatient or inpatient. The device provides results within two minutes and is supervised by trained staff. Participants will have their age, gender, height, weight, and blood pressure recorded before measurement. For outpatients, measurements occur preoperatively and postoperatively before IV removal. For inpatients, measurements happen preoperatively, then at 6 hours and 24 hours after anesthesia induction. Data collected includes total body water changes to assess fluid shifts. The study does not require further follow-up after hospital discharge. Only high-quality measurements are used for analysis, and the study is conducted under standard anesthesia care protocols.

Bio Impedance Monitoring as a Tool to Assess Fluid Status in the Pediatric Surgical Patient? (PedFluid Study)