Abstract
The neuroprotective effect of magnesium sulphate infusion has been confirmed in experimental models. Pilot clinical trials using magnesium sulphate in patients with acute aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) have reported a trend toward a reduction in clinical deterioration due to delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) and an improvement in clinical outcomes. However, our recent multicenter trials and systemic review failed to confirm benefit in neurological outcome. In post hoc analysis, data also did not support that a higher dose of magnesium sulphate infusion might improve clinical outcome. We here review the current literature, highlight these discrepancies, and explore alternatives.
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IMASH was supported by the Hong Kong Research Grant Council. The funding source had no role in the study design, collection, analysis or interpretation of data, manuscript preparation or decision for submission.
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Wong, G.K.C., Poon, W.S. (2013). Magnesium Sulphate for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Why, How, and Current Controversy. In: Zuccarello, M., Clark, J., Pyne-Geithman, G., Andaluz, N., Hartings, J., Adeoye, O. (eds) Cerebral Vasospasm: Neurovascular Events After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage. Acta Neurochirurgica Supplement, vol 115. Springer, Vienna. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-7091-1192-5_10
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