THE USE OF A FIBEROPTIC INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE TRANSDUCER IN THE TREATMENT OF HEAD INJURIES

Abstract

A 3-year experience of intracranial pressure monitoring of head-injured patients with a fiberoptic system, and the basic mechanics of the system are discussed. In the overall study, 46 patients were monitored for up to 32 days. There were no infections. Thirty-three patients had elevated pressure, and 16 of these patients required treatment of their elevated pressure. The pertinent findings in intracranial pressure monitoring that may indicate the need for, and the response to, therapy for increased intracranial pressure are also presented. The data obtained from monitoring indicate that intracranial pressure monitoring can also be an aid in the attempt of determine the prognosis of the patient.