Calcium flux during hemorrhagic shock in baboons

This study represents the first reported in a series designed to define the role of calcium in the pathophysiology of shock. The authors have demonstrated a decrease in the concentration of extracellular calcium in hemorrhagic shock in baboons. This is aggravated by a calcium free resuscitation. The authors also have demonstrated that there is an increase in extracellular concentration of magnesium during the shock period; however, this is minimized by a calcium free resuscitation after 2 1/2 hours. The authors conclude, at the present time, that calcium should be present in resuscitation fluids and that supplemental calcium should be given when massive transfusions are necessary.