We compared the effects of lactated Ringer's (LR) and hypertonic saline dextran (HSD) on postburn cardiovascular function, O2 consumption, lipid peroxidation, and bacterial translocation. Miniature pigs with 40% total body surface area (TBSA), third-degree burns received, 30 minutes postburn, either Parkland resuscitation (LR group, n = 8) or HSD, 10 mL/kg/30 minutes, followed by LR, 4 mL/kg/%burn over the next 23 hours (HSD group, n = 8). The HSD prevented the early decrease in cardiac index (CI); the early increase in the resistance of the systemic, mesenteric, celiac, and renal vascular beds; and the decrease in mesenteric O2 consumption seen after burns when LR alone is used for resuscitation. The HSD also moderated the systemic and mesenteric lipid peroxidation. Bacterial translocation was less in the HSD group (3 of 8 animals) compared with the LR group (5 of 8 animals), but was not statistically different. Hypertonic saline dextran may be beneficial in improving the postburn microcirculation and attenuating postburn oxidant-induced lipid peroxidation in the systemic tissues and the gut.