A single dose of hypertonic isoncotic saline solution [7.2% NaCl/6% HES (200/0.5)] and mannitol (20%) with equivalent osmolar loads were effective and safe in producing cerebral relaxation during elective neurosurgical procedures under general anesthesia.

Background and objectives:Cerebral relaxation during intracranial surgery is necessary, and hiperosmolar therapy is one of the measures used to this end. Frequently, neurosurgical patients have sodium imbalances. The objective of the present study was to quantify and determine cerebral relaxation and duration of hydroelectrolytic changes secondary to the use of mannitol versus hypertonic isoncotic solution (HIS) during neurosurgery.