external ventricular drain
Also written as: EVD — External Ventricular Drain
A temporary catheter system placed into the brain ventricles to monitor intracranial pressure and drain cerebrospinal fluid.
Full Definition
An external ventricular drain (EVD) is a temporary neurosurgical device consisting of a catheter inserted through the skull into the lateral ventricle to provide drainage of cerebrospinal fluid and monitoring of intracranial pressure. The system includes a ventricular catheter, drainage tubing, and an external collection chamber that can be positioned at varying heights to control drainage pressure. EVDs are commonly used in cases of hydrocephalus, subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic brain injury, and postoperative complications. The device allows for both therapeutic CSF drainage to reduce intracranial pressure and diagnostic sampling of cerebrospinal fluid. Complications include infection, hemorrhage, malposition, and blockage, requiring careful monitoring and sterile technique during management.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as EVD. Include drainage parameters and ICP readings when documenting.
In Context
- "An EVD was placed emergently for acute hydrocephalus following subarachnoid hemorrhage." — Emergency department report
- "The external ventricular drain demonstrated consistent CSF drainage with ICP readings below 15 mmHg." — ICU monitoring note