Use of Lactated Ringers Solution Compared With Normal Saline Is Associated With Shorter Length of Stay in Pediatric Acute Pancreatitis.

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate lactated ringers (LR) versus normal saline (NS) in pediatric acute pancreatitis (AP).
Methods: This retrospective study used Pediatric Health Information System database of primary AP patients, 2013 to 2017.
Results: The study included 1581 first time AP patients with exclusive use of a single fluid (111 LR, 1470 NS) for the first 48 hours. The LR cohort had a significantly shorter length of stay (P < 0.001) compared with NS. A multivariable logistic regression analysis suggests use of NS in the first 48 hours (after controlling for total parenteral nutrition, operation, and infection during the admission) had a significantly increased likelihood of requiring a hospitalization for 4 days or more compared with the LR group (odds ratio, 3.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.95-5.62). The overall cost was significantly less in the LR group. There was no statistical difference observed in risk factors for AP, intensive care transfer, organ dysfunction, or mortality.
Conclusions: This represents the first large data set analysis of LR versus NS in pediatric AP. The use of LR was associated with a shorter length of stay and reduced cost compared with NS. Future randomized trials will help determine the ideal fluid choice for pediatric AP.