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Intravenous hypertonic saline to reduce intraocular pressure
Mika Harju1, Tero Kivelä, Nina Lindbohm
1Department of Ophthalmology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, FinlandDepartment of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
Acta Ophthalmologica
|July 28, 2012
Summary
Intravenous hypertonic saline (IVHTS) effectively lowers elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) within minutes for up to two hours in glaucoma patients. This study quantifies the IOP reduction achieved with IVHTS administration.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Nephrology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a significant risk factor for glaucoma and optic nerve damage.
- Pharmacological interventions are crucial for managing high IOP, but rapid reduction is often needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the effect of intravenous hypertonic saline (IVHTS) on elevated intraocular pressure (IOP).
- To assess the duration of IOP reduction following IVHTS administration.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen patients with glaucoma and IOP ≥ 30 mmHg received a bolus of 23.4% IVHTS.
- Dosages were 0.5 mmol/kg sodium (Group 1, n=11) and 1.0 mmol/kg sodium (Group 2, n=8).
- IOP and blood pressure were measured for 2 hours post-injection.
Main Results:
- A median IOP reduction of 7 mmHg was observed within 5 minutes in both groups.
- Maximum median IOP reduction was 7 mmHg (Group 1) and 9 mmHg (Group 2) at 5 and 16 minutes, respectively.
- IOP remained reduced by 7 mmHg for up to 2 hours; systolic blood pressure showed a transient increase.
Conclusions:
- Intravenous hypertonic saline solution provides a moderate reduction in elevated intraocular pressure.
- The IOP-lowering effect is rapid, occurring within minutes and sustained for at least two hours.
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