Evidence-Based Critical Care of Intracerebral Hemorrhage: An Overview

Outcome of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is still poor and siginificantly influenced by complications during the acute phase, so optimized neurocritical care is crucial. Vital parameters, neurological status and laboratory values of ICH-patient should be monitored very closely with special attention on blood pressure and intracranial pressure. Systolic blood pressure should be kept <140 mm Hg and intracranial pressure <20 mm Hg. Administration of hemostatic agents in spontaneous ICH without intake of anticoagulants is actually not recommended out of clinical trials. Neurosurgical treatment of ICH is still an individual decision. Patients with a higher level of consciousness may profit from an early operation.