Fluids and Resuscitation

Intravenous fluid resuscitation is considered the cornerstone in the early management of acute pancreatitis (AP). Although practice guidelines have recommended fluid therapy in AP for decades, it’s not until recently that a number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have emerged to better delineate what type of fluid and rate of administration are beneficial. In this chapter, we will review the rationale of intravenous fluid therapy, provide guidance on appropriate fluid resuscitation, and discuss methods to guide resuscitation efforts during the inpatient management of patients with AP.