Comparison of 3% hypertonic saline and 20% mannitol for controlling intracranial pressure in TBI patients

Objective:To explore effects of 3% HS and 20% mannitol for controlling intracranial pressure in TBI Patients.Methods:30severe TBI patients were treated by 3% HS and 20% mannitol alternately for controlling intracranial pressure.Changes of intracranial pressure after infusion of 3% HS and 20% mannitol as well as central venous pressure were observed and compared.Results:Both 3% HS and 20% mannitol were effective in reducing intracranial pressure but decreased central venous pressure was less frequently observed during 3% HS treatment.Conclusions:The 3% HS has equal effect as20% mannitol in reducing intracranial pressure,but The 3% HS treatment is more useful for maintaining stable central venous pressure,thus can increase the successful rescue rate of the patients with TBI.