The effects of hypertonic saline/dextran (HSD) on hemodynamics and on rebleeding were studied during an uncontrolled intra-abdominal hemorrhage combined with a high-energy gunshot wound (GSW) in the hind limb of anesthetized swine. The GSW had instant effects on the central hemodynamics, which were aggravated when the internal hemorrhage was induced. Compared with baseline, cardiac output decreased to about 42%, mean arterial pressure decreased to 52 +/- 4%, and mean flow rates in the splanchnic region, in the upper aorta, and in the kidney decreased to 51 to 15%. The injection of HSD at 10 minutes was followed by a prompt increase in blood flow rates, but rebleeding occurred in five of eight animals, although only two died. In conclusion, GSW induced instant changes in hemodynamics at distance from the injury. When HSD treatment was given in a bolus injection, rebleeding occurred in five of eight animals, although the second hemorrhage became fatal in only one animal.