'''Dextran''' is a molecule produced by certain strains of bacteria to give this linear polysaccaharide as either a high or low weight molecule. It is found in a sodium chloride or dextrose solution. It is metabolised to glucose within the patient. Both high and low weight molecules produce the same plasma volume expansion per gram, although the low weight molecule it thought to achieve this more rapidly. There are concerns about it's interaction with fibrin, making clots weaker and decreasing factor VIII and von Willebrand's factor. | '''Dextran''' is a molecule produced by certain strains of bacteria to give this linear polysaccaharide as either a high or low weight molecule. It is found in a sodium chloride or dextrose solution. It is metabolised to glucose within the patient. Both high and low weight molecules produce the same plasma volume expansion per gram, although the low weight molecule it thought to achieve this more rapidly. There are concerns about it's interaction with fibrin, making clots weaker and decreasing factor VIII and von Willebrand's factor. |