Hydrocephalus and the neuro-intensivist: CSF hydrodynamics at the bedside

Abstract

Hydrocephalus (HCP) is far more complicated than a simple disorder of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation. HCP is a common complication in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and after craniectomy. Clinical measurement in HCP is mainly related to intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral blood flow. The ability to obtain quantitative variables that describe CSF dynamics at the bedside before potential shunting may support clinical intuition with a description of CSF dysfunction and differentiation between normal pressure hydrocephalus and brain atrophy. This review discusses the advanced research on HCP and how CSF is generated, stored and absorbed within the context of a mathematical model developed by Marmarou. Then, we proceed to explain the main quantification analysis of CSF dynamics using infusion techniques for deciding on definitive treatment. We consider that such descriptions of multiple parameters of measurements need to be significantly appreciated by the caring neuro-intensivist, for better understanding of the complex pathophysiology and clinical management and finally, improve of the prognosis of these patients with HCP.

Keywords: Cerebrospinal fluid; Craniectomy; Cranioplasty; Hydrocephalus; Hydrodynamics; Shunt.