Postoperative decrease in plasma sodium concentration after infusion of hypotonic intravenous solutions in neonatal surgeryâ€

Hypotonic solutions and i.v. free water intake of more than 6.5 ml kg−1 h−1 are associated with reductions in postoperative plasma sodium measurements ≥4 mM. In the context of neonatal surgery, close monitoring of plasma sodium is mandatory. Routine use of hypotonic i.v. solutions during neonatal surgery should be questioned as they are likely to reduce plasma sodium.