Abstract
Measurement and analysis of intracranial pressure (ICP) are crucial to neurosurgery. It has been asserted that analogue data printouts of ICP do not provide enough information on the actual condition of the patient and make further data processing impossible. Most institutions, however, rely on this simple technique to classify patients, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and even to mathematically and statistically analyze the (possibly inaccurate and unreliable) data obtained. Although several microcomputer systems for ICP data processing have been developed recently, they handle only a fraction of ICP dynamics. The Data General DG 30 Minicomputer, a total system that includes comprehensive color graphic display and digital printing of ICP-related data, was developed with new techniques that improve algorithmic sampling and analysis. Included in the data display are vital signs, trend analysis and histographic array of mean ICP, mean blood pressure, and cerebral perfusion pressure, the ICP power spectrum of the B wave, intracranial compliance, and the A wave. This comprehensive presentation of ICP-related data provides a basis for more objective evaluation of treatment modalities and may contribute substantially to studies of the value of ICP monitoring.
