Template:Increased ICP treatment

Increased ICP Treatment

Treatment guidelines from the [Brain Trauma Foundation

Head of Bed elevation

• 30 degrees or reverse Trendelenburg will lower ICP

Maintain cerebral perfusion

• Provide fluids and vasopressors if needed for goal cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) of 80mm Hg
• Transfuse PRBCs with goal Hb>7
• CPP = MAP-ICP
  • If MAP <80, then CPP<60

Osmotherapies

Therapies include ither mannitol or hypertonic saline. In choosing the appropriate agent, coordinate with neurosurgery and take into account the patient's blood pressure. Mannitol may cause hypotension due to the osmotic diuresis.

1. Mannitol
   • If SBP>90
   • Bolus 20% @ 0.25-1 gm/kg as rapid infusion (target Osm 300-320 mOsm/kg)
   • Reduces ICP within 30min; duration of action of 6-8hr
   • Monitor I+O to maintain euvolemia
2. Hypertonic Saline
   • target sodium 145-155mg/dL

Prevent Cerebral Constriction

• Hyperventilation is not recommended
• Hyperventilation to PaCO2 <25 never indicated
• Maintain PaCO₂ 35-40mmHg

Seizure Control

• Treat immediately with benzodiazepines and antiepileptics
• Seizure prophylaxis reduces seizures but does not improve long-term outcomes

Intubation Pretreatment

• If need for RSI, consider pretreatment with lidocaine and/or fentanyl
• Also ensure adequate sedation (prevent gag reflex)

1. Goal cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) ~60mmHg

Decrease metabolic rate

• Provide adequate sedation and analgesia
• Avoid hyperthermia