intraparenchymal pressure monitor
A device placed directly into brain tissue to continuously measure intracranial pressure, providing accurate real-time ICP readings.
Full Definition
An intraparenchymal pressure monitor is a microsensor-tipped catheter inserted directly into brain parenchyma to measure intracranial pressure continuously. Unlike ventricular catheters, these monitors cannot drain cerebrospinal fluid but offer several advantages including easier insertion, lower infection risk, and ability to function in patients with compressed or displaced ventricles. The most commonly used systems include fiber-optic and strain-gauge technologies. Placement typically occurs in the frontal lobe through a small burr hole, with the sensor positioned 2-3 cm below the surface. These monitors provide accurate pressure readings and may include additional sensors for measuring brain tissue oxygen, temperature, or other parameters in multimodal monitoring systems.
Usage
Usage note: Sometimes incorrectly called 'parenchymal monitor' alone. The full term should specify pressure monitoring function.
In Context
- "An intraparenchymal pressure monitor was placed due to compressed ventricles preventing ventriculostomy insertion." — Neurosurgical operative note
- "The patient's ICP readings from the parenchymal monitor remained stable overnight." — Neurocritical care progress note