Evidence-based indications for ICP recording after head injury. A review.

Abstract

The indication for invasive intracranial pressure (ICP) recording in comatose patients after head injury is a matter of discussion. In this review the evidence-based data are analysed. Monitoring appears useful especially in sedated patients, but there is no study which provides evidence of its overall benefit for the patient. The decision for or against ICP monitoring must therefore be based on weighing the potential benefits versus the risk for the individual patient according to the personal experience and judgement of the attending neurosurgeon.