The effects of sodium-2-mercaptoethanesulfonate application on the neural and neurovascular tissues: An experimental animal study

BACKGROUND: Sodium-2-mercaptoethanesulfonate (MESNA) is a protective agent that is also used as “a chemical dissector” in various surgical fields. The aim of this study is to evaluate the toxic effects of MESNA on neural and neurovascular structures based on a morphological analysis and examine its safety in neurotological applications. METHODS: Three groups of guinea pigs were used as subjects. MESNA solution (50 and 100%) and saline solution were applied to the subarachnoid space over the brain tissue via a middle fossa approach of study and control groups, respectively. Effects of MESNA were assessed by means of light microscope. McNemar Chi-square test was used to evaluate the histopathological findings. Statistical significance of P < 0.05 was taken as criterion. RESULTS: No morphological changes were observed on vascular and neural structures in the study groups in both concentrations, compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: On a morphological basis, a single application of MESNA does not cause any morphological changes that indicate a toxicity in neural and neurovascular structures.