What is the preferred treatment for preventing acute kidney injury in patients with rhabdomyolysis?

The preferred treatment for preventing acute kidney injury in patients with rhabdomyolysis is isotonic saline infusions. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition characterized by the release of myoglobin from damaged muscle cells into the bloodstream, which can lead to kidney damage due to myoglobinuria. Ensuring adequate hydration is crucial because it helps to dilute myoglobin in the urine, enhances renal perfusion, and promotes diuresis, all of which can help prevent kidney injury.

Isotonic saline, often referred to as normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride), is the preferred choice because it closely matches the body's extracellular fluid composition. By administering isotonic saline, healthcare providers can restore fluid balance and maintain kidney function more effectively compared to other forms of hydration. Additionally, isotonic saline helps to increase urine output, which is critical in flushing out nephrotoxic substances such as myoglobin.

Other methods, like hypertonic saline, are not typically used for this purpose as they can potentially lead to complications like hypernatremia or fluid overload. Oral hydration with water may not be adequate in acute situations, particularly if the patient is severely dehydrated or unable to ingest fluids. Dialysis, while a necessary treatment in cases of