The Effect of Normal Saline Injection on the Concentration of Electrolytes in Guinea Pig Perilymph

Abstract

Serum, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), scala vestibuli perilymph and scala tympani perilymph were collected from 104 normal anesthetized guinea pigs (Sodium Pentobarbital 20-30mg/kg I. P.) both before and after intravenous administration of normal saline (1.5ml/kg), and the sodium and potassium concentrations were assessed using a microflame photometer.
Increase in the sodium concentration was observed in scala vestibuli perilymph, while there was no significant change in scala tympani perilymph, CSF and serum.
The potassium concentration did not significantly change in perilymph, CSF and serum.
The results of the present study indicate that a relatively small amount of injected normal saline affects the concentration of electrolytes in scala vestibuli perilymph. Thus, each perilymphatic space seems to have its own characteristic system in electrolyte transport.