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==Introduction==

==Introduction==

A '''colloid''' solution contains large molecules that do not easily cross a semi permeable membrane. Colloids can be either natural or synthetic. They are used to help maintain colloid osmotic pressure (COP), correct hypovolemia and with plasma (see below) clotting factors. It is the number of particles within the colloid that influences the osmotic effect, not the size of the particles. They are highly efficient at expanding vascular volume, compared to [[crystalloids|crystalloids]], which easily diffuse out of the circulation, meaning that less volume is required.

A '''colloid''' solution contains large molecules that do not easily cross a semi permeable membrane. Colloids can be either natural or synthetic. They are used to help maintain colloid osmotic pressure (COP), correct hypovolemia and with plasma (see below) clotting factors. It is the number of particles within the colloid that influences the osmotic effect, not the size of the particles. They are highly efficient at expanding vascular volume, compared to [[crystalloids|crystalloids]], which easily diffuse out of the circulation, meaning that less volume is required.