ICP monitoring
Also written as: ICP — intracranial pressure
Continuous measurement of intracranial pressure using invasive devices to guide neurological critical care management.
Full Definition
The continuous measurement of pressure within the skull using invasive monitoring devices such as intraventricular catheters, intraparenchymal monitors, or subdural bolts. Normal ICP ranges from 5-15 mmHg in adults. Elevated ICP above 20 mmHg indicates intracranial hypertension requiring immediate intervention to prevent brain herniation and death. ICP monitoring is essential in managing traumatic brain injury, intracerebral hemorrhage, and postoperative neurosurgical patients. Treatment protocols typically involve osmotic therapy, hyperventilation, sedation, and surgical decompression when conservative measures fail.
Usage
Usage note: ICP should be capitalized when used as abbreviation.
In Context
- "ICP monitoring showed sustained pressures above 25 mmHg requiring osmotic therapy." — Neurosurgical ICU documentation
- "The patient underwent placement of an intraventricular catheter for ICP monitoring." — Procedure note