Comparison and evaluation of two different crystalloids - Normal saline and plasmalyte in patients of traumatic brain injury undergoing craniotomy

Background and aims: Fluid therapy is one of the most important components of the management of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). The present study was planned to compare plasmalyte and normal saline (NS) in patients who underwent craniotomies for TBI in terms of their effects on acid-base equilibrium, renal functions, and coagulation profile.

Methods: Fifty patients of age 18-45 years of either sex, who underwent emergency craniotomy for TBI, were included in the study. The patients were randomized into two groups. Group P (n = 25) received isotonic balanced crystalloid (plasmalyte) and Group N (n = 25) received NS intraoperatively and postoperatively till 24 h after surgery.

Results: The pH was lower in Group N (P < 0.05) at different time points after surgery. Similarly, more patients in Group N had pH <7.3 (P < 0.05); while the rest of the metabolic parameters were comparable in the two groups. Blood urea and serum creatinine were higher in Group N. Coagulation profile was comparable in the two groups.

Conclusion: Acid-base, electrolyte balance, and renal profile were better in patients receiving plasmalyte as compared to NS. Hence, it can be a wiser choice for fluid management in patients of TBI undergoing craniotomy.