Raised Intracranial Pressure Flashcards
1
Q
what is the normal ICP in adults in the supine position?
A
7-15 mmHg
2
Q
what is cerebral perfusion pressure?
A
net pressure gradient causing cerebral blood flow to the brain
3
Q
what is the formula for CPP?
A
cerebral perfusion pressure = mean arterial pressure - intracranial pressure
CPP = MAP - ICP
4
Q
what are the causes of raised ICP?
A
- idiopathic intracranial hypertension
- traumatic head injuries
- infection - meningitis
- tumours
- hydrocephalus
5
Q
what are the features of raised ICP?
A
- headache (worse on leaning forward)
- vomiting
- reduced consciousness
- papilloedema
- cushing’s triad
6
Q
what is cushing’s triad?
A
- widening pulse pressure
- bradycardia
- irregular breathing
7
Q
what investigations can be down to determine the underlying cause in raised ICP?
A
CT head
8
Q
what is invasive ICP monitoring?
A
catheter placed into the lateral ventricles of the brain to monitor the pressure
9
Q
what is the management of raised ICP?
A
- head elevation to 30 degrees
- IV mannitol (osmotic diuretic)
- controlled hyperventilation
10
Q
how does controlled hyperventilation work in raised ICP?
A
- reduces CO2
- vasoconstriction of the cerebral arteries
- reduced ICP