Neuropathophysiology

Question 1

What does a benign intracranial mass lesion mean?

Answer 1

It is not at risk for metastatasizing to other parts of the body

Question 2

What are some pre-op physical signs/documents to look for, for a neurological case?

Answer 2

• CT or MRI
• Signs of increased ICP
• Squeezed ventricles
• Area where interruption is (where surgery will be performed)

Question 3

What are some important medications to look for when pre-op’ing a neuro patient?

Answer 3

• Antibiotics
• Diuretics
• Steroids
• Anticonvulsant

Question 4

Why is important to do a neurological assessment?

Answer 4

To find out their baseline/deficits and look for changes in neurological function

Question 5

What are important labs to get for a neuro case?

Answer 5

• Electrolytes (chem panel to find out if hypo/hyperkalemic
• Osmolarity
• Hyperglycemia (a concern if on steroids)

Question 6

What is a main pre-op concern for neuro patients?

Answer 6

Controlled ICP! (If stimulated before deeply anesthetized can increase ICP dangerously; avoid premedication if ICP is of concern)

Question 7

Why should you avoid pre-medication?

Answer 7

Concern about ICP; People might have increased sensitivities to benzos and narcotics (Hypoventilate > become apneic > increased CO2 > O2 falls > Increased ICP)

Question 8

What are two important medications to continue for neuro patients and why?

Answer 8

Steroids and anticonvulsants (they might have withdrawal and swell or seize)