Hypodermoclysis for Frail Patients and Patients in Long Term Care: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness, Cost Effectiveness, and Guidelines

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Project Status:
Completed
Project Line:
Health Technology Review
Project Sub Line:
Summary with Critical Appraisal
Project Number:
RC1306-000

Question

  1. What is the clinical effectiveness of hypodermoclysis in frail patients who are at risk of dehydration or who are dehydrated in any setting?
  2. What is the clinical effectiveness of hypodermoclysis in geriatric patients who are at risk of dehydration or who are dehydrated in long term care?
  3. What is the cost-effectiveness of hypodermoclysis in frail patients who are at risk of dehydration or who are dehydrated in any setting?
  4. What is the cost-effectiveness of hypodermoclysis in geriatric patients who are at risk of dehydration or who are dehydrated in long term care?
  5. What are the evidence-based guidelines regarding the use of hypodermoclysis in frail patients or patients in long term care?

Key Message

Two systematic reviews and one randomized controlled trial were identified regarding hypodermoclysis in patients who are frail or who are in long term care. Hypodermoclysis appeared to have fewer adverse effects or complications when compared with intravenous fluids but did not have a significantly better clinical improvement of dehydration. The studies were of low quality, with poor reporting of methods and small sample sizes. No economic evaluations were identified regarding hypodermoclysis in frail patients or patients in long term care, and no evidence-based guidelines were identified.