Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Peri-Operative Infusion of Magnesium Sulfate on the Microsurgical Procedures for Intracranial Tumors

BACKGROUND: The anti-inflammatory properties of magnesium sulfate have never been discussed in brain tumor surgeries. OBJECTIVES: This study is aimed to find anti-inflammatory aspects of high dose magnesium sulfate infusion during perioperative period of neurosurgical patients through checking the serial C-reactive protein (CRP) blood levels as a biomarker of inflammation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty patients who were candidate for elective craniotomy were enrolled randomly into two equal groups to receive either magnesium sulfate or normal saline during their perioperative period. Infusion of magnesium was performed three times during the study and a summation of 15 grams was administered: 1- two days before surgery, 2- one day before surgery, 3- from the beginning of surgery (five grams was infused within six hours in each session). Serum level of CRP was checked just before commencement of magnesium infusion and on the first and second day after surgery as primary outcome. Hemodynamic parameters, total propofol requirement and total blood loss were recorded as well. RESULTS: No significant difference was found between groups in terms of serum CRP levels. The mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate, blood loss and total anesthetic requirement were significantly lower in magnesium group in comparison to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: We did not find conclusive evidence for anti-inflammatory effects of magnesium in craniotomy for microsurgery of intracranial tumors using CRP level changes. However, high dose magnesium might be suggested as a safe anesthetic adjuvant in neurosurgery.