[Measuring intracranial pressure after trepanation in traumatized patients]

Between 1.1.1990 and 30.9.1991 32 neuro-traumatological operations were carried out. With 22 patients the intracranial pressure probe was used. With 11 injured persons the ICP (intracranial pressure) values were unchanged. Within this group a computer tomography of the skull around the fifth postoperative day was indicated. Unlike this group, injured persons without a monitoring of intracranial pressure had to undergo a computer tomography on the first postoperative day. After craniotomies, measurements of the intracranial pressure should be carried out as in case of severe head injuries. In this way expansive intracranial changes which occur postoperatively can immediately be seen and diagnosed or treated. On the other hand, if the intracranial pressure values are unchanged, postoperative computed tomography may be carried out later i.e. after the vulnerable phase. Further advantages result from monitoring the patients in the intensive care unit.