Effect of intraosseous saline infusion on hematologic parameters.

Abstract

To examine the effects of intraosseous saline infusion on hematologic parameters. Eight New Zealand White rabbits were anesthetized with intramuscular ketamine. An initial blood sample was withdrawn from a earlobe vein on induction of anesthesia. An 18-gauge intraosseous needle was then inserted into the rabbit's proximal tibia, and 10 mL/kg of normal saline was infused over one minute. Two additional blood samples were obtained 15 and 30 minutes after the intraosseous infusion. Complete blood counts were performed on the blood samples. Significant differences were found in monocytes, basophils, and nucleated RBCs from samples drawn before and after intraosseous infusion. The microscopic examination of the peripheral blood smear revealed an increase in the number of burr cells, schistocytes, and polychromasia in the postinfusion samples. We advocate caution in the interpretation of hematologic studies performed on blood samples obtained shortly after an intraosseous infusion.