Managing Intracranial Pressure Crisis

Abstract

Purpose of Review The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive management protocol for the treatment of intracranial pressure (ICP) crises based on the latest evidence. Recent Findings The review discusses updated information on various aspects of critical care management in patients experiencing ICP crises, including mechanical ventilation, fluid therapy, hemoglobin targets, and hypertonic saline infusion, the advantages of ICP monitoring, the critical ICP threshold, and bedside neuromonitoring. Summary All aspects of critical care treatment, including hemodynamic and respiratory support and adjustment of ICP reduction therapy, may impact patient outcomes. ICP monitoring allows ICP values, trends, waveforms, and CPP calculation, which are helpful to guide patient care. Advanced neuromonitoring devices are available at the bedside to diagnose impaired intracranial compliance and intracranial hypertension, assess brain function, and optimize cerebral perfusion. Future research should focus on developing appropriate intervention protocols for both invasive and noninvasive neuromonitoring in managing ICP crisis patients.