Aim: The aim of the study was to compare the effect of mannitol and hypertonic saline on intraoperative brain relaxation during decompressive craniectomy in traumatic brain injury. Methods: A total of 100 patients ,scheduled to undergo craniectomy were enrolled in this study and were divided into two groups of 50 each. Group M patients received 5 ml/kg 20% mannitol(M) and Group HTS received 3% hypertonic saline (HTS) at the start of scalp incision. Hemodynamics, fluid balance and serum electrolytes, were measured at 0, 15, 30, and 60 min and 6 h after infusion. Intensive Care Unit stay and requirement of ventilation was also recorded. The surgeon assessed brain relaxation on a four‑point scale (1 = Relaxed, 2 = Satisfactory, 3 = Firm, 4 = Bulging). P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Intraoperative brain relaxation in the HTS group (relaxed /satisfactory /firm/ bulging,n=28/17/4/1) were better than those observed in the M group (relaxed/satisfactory/firm/bulging(n = 20/18/8/4). The levels of serum sodium were higher in the HTS group compared to group M. Conclusion: We concluded that HTS provided better brain relaxation than mannitol during decompressive craniectomy in traumatic brain injury, without affecting ICU and hospital stay.