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Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a pathological state common to a variety of serious neurological illnesses, all of which are characterized by the addition of volume tot he intracranial vault. Hence, all ICP therapies (e.g., ventricular drainage, hyperventilation, mannitol) are directed toward reducing intracranial volume. Placement of an ICP monitor is the critical first step in effectively treating intracranial hypertension. ICP elevation is best managed using a stepwise protocol, with careful attention to sedation and CPP control before mannitol and hyperventilation are administered. |
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