[Middle-molecular hydroxyethyl starch as a volume substitute. Its rheological effect in peripheral arterial occlusive diseases].

The tolerance to and effectiveness of middle-molecular hydroxy-ethyl starch as volume replacement by isovolemic haemodilution over 6 weeks was tested in 15 patients with peripheral arterial obstructive disease, stages II and III. After 6 weeks of isovolemic haemodilution treatment the pain-free walking distance increased significantly, the peak-flow after reactive hyperaemia increased, blood pressure and pulse remained unchanged, blood fluidity was significantly improved. This pilot study indicates that middle-molecular hydroxy-ethyl starch as volume replacement through isovolemic haemodilution represents a good alternative to dextran. It may even be superior to dextran in the treatment of arterial obstructive disease.