Usefulness of transcranial echography in patients with decompressive craniectomy: a comparison with computed tomography scan. Crit Care Med. 2012;40:1745-1752. [PMID: 22610180 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0b013e318246b6ea]

The Role of Transcranial Ultrasound Imaging in Intensive Care Treatment of Decompressive Hemicraniectomy Patients: A Retrospective Single-Center Analysis

Background: Post-hemicraniectomy patients often need extended intensive care treatment. While computed tomography (CT) is considered the gold standard for regular imaging, its frequent use could be linked to adverse clinical outcomes. This study aimed to assess bedside transcranial ultrasound (TUS) to capture intracranial anatomical structures and pathologies. Methods: We analyzed 19 patients treated in our neurosurgical ICU from 1 January 2023 to 1 February 2024. Six physicians from our unit (three residents and three attending physicians) conducted a retrospective evaluation. A total of 158 sessions, including multiple freeze frames and video footage, were analyzed, including 7 imaging categories, using a Likert scale. Subsequently, correlation between CT and TUS was evaluated for midline (ML) shift, subdural space, lateral ventricular width (LVW), and extent of intracerebral hematoma using the Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). Results: TUS was performed on average on 8.32/19.53 days (mean inpatient stay). It provided the lowest Likert scores for the imaging categories ventricular system, midline, subdural space, intraventricular catheter placement, and cortical gyration. Residents reported slightly inferior assessability, resulting in higher scores on the Likert scale (0.02-0.93 mean difference compared with attending physicians). A high correlation was shown in terms of ML shift, LVW, and intracerebral hematomas. No relevant correlation was shown in subdural space. Conclusions: TUS is a safe, cost-, and time-efficient method, potentially gaining relevance for imaging post-hemicraniectomy patients. In our setting, the method seemed effective in depicting intraventricular catheter placement, hydrocephalus, ML shift, and space-occupying lesions. Further improvement in image quality could potentially reduce the overall number of indicated CT scans.

Correlation between Transcranial Ultrasound and CT Head to Detect Clinically Significant Conditions in Post-craniectomy Patients Performed by Emergency Physician: A Pilot Study

Background

The main objective is to detect clinically significant conditions by transcranial ultrasound (TCS) in post-decompressive craniectomy (DC) patients who come to the emergency department.

Materials and methods

This was a cross-sectional observational study. We studied 40 post-DC patients. After primary stabilization, TCS was done. Computer tomography of head was done within 2 hours of performing TCS. The correlation between both modalities were assessed by the measurement of lateral ventricle (LV) (Bland-Altman plot), Midline shift and mass lesion. Additionally, normal cerebral anatomy, 3rd and 4th ventricles and external ventricular drainage (EVD) catheter visualization were also done.

Results

About 14/40 patients came with non-neurosurgical complaints and 26/40 patients came with neurosurgical complaints. Patients with non-neurosurgical complaints (4/14) had mass lesions and 1/14 had MLS. Patients with neurosurgical complaints (11/26) had mass lesions and about 5 patients had MLS. A good correlation was found between TCS and CT of head in measuring LV right (CT head = 17.4 ± 13.8 mm and TCS = 17.1 ± 14.8 mm. The mean difference (95% CI) = [0.28 (-1.9 to 1.33), ICC 0.93 (0.88-0.96)], Left [CT head = 17.8 ± 14.4 mm and TCS = 17.1 ± 14.2 mm, the mean difference (95% CI) 0.63 (-1.8 to 0.61), ICC 0.96 (0.93-0.98)], MLS [CT head = 6.16 ± 3.59 (n = 7) and TCS = 7.883 ± 4.17 (n = 6)] and mass lesions (kappa 0.84 [0.72-0.89] [95% CI] p-value < 0.001). The agreement between both modalities for detecting mass lesions is 93.75%.

Conclusion

Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is a bedside, easily operable, non-radiation hazard and dynamic imaging tool that can be used for TCS as a supplement to CT head in post-DC patients in emergency as well as in ICU. However, assessment of the ventricular system (pre/post-EVD insertion), monitoring of regression/progression of mass lesion, etc. can be done with TCS. Repeated scans are possible in less time which can decrease the frequency of CT head.

How to cite this article

Chouhan R, Sinha TP, Bhoi S, Kumar A, Agrawal D, Nayer J, et al. Correlation between Transcranial Ultrasound and CT Head to Detect Clinically Significant Conditions in Post-craniectomy Patients Performed by Emergency Physician: A Pilot Study. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(3):299-306.

Transcranial sonography in the critical patient

Transcranial ultrasonography is a non-invasive, bedside technique that has become a widely implemented tool in the evaluation and management of neurocritically ill patients. It constitutes a technique in continuous growth whose fundamentals (and limitations) must be known by the intensivist. This review provides a practical approach for the intensivist, including the different sonographic windows and planes of insonation and its role in different conditions of the neurocritical patients and in critical care patients of other etiologies.

Application of Transcranial Sonography for the Assessment of Brain Midline Shift in Patients Presenting With Suspected Intracranial Pathology to the Emergency Department of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Central Gujarat, India

BACKGROUND

A shift in midline brain structure indicates raised intracranial pressure (ICP), thereby a sign of compromised perfusion to brain tissues or a mass effect. Early diagnosis can help in planning timely neurosurgical interventions that could prevent further neuron loss. Also, this may aid in neuroprognostication.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the study were to find the accuracy of bedside assessment of brain midline shift (MLS) using transcranial sonography (TCS) in comparison to a computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain for patients presenting with suspected intracranial pathology to the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

This prospective observational study was carried out for one year in an ED. A total of 124 patients with suspected intracranial pathology were included in the study. Transtemporal scanning along the orbitomeatal line was performed to image the third ventricle. The distance between the third ventricle and the internal side of the temporal bone was measured on both sides as A and B. The MLS was then calculated using the following formula: midline shift = (A-B)/2. The data were entered and analyzed using a Microsoft Excel worksheet (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA).

RESULTS

Out of the total 124 patients enrolled in this study, adequate views for 12 patients were not obtained and, hence, they were excluded from the study. The time to perform a TCS assessment of brain MLS was around 22 minutes (range: 15-30 minutes). In our study, out of 112 analyzed patients, 33 (29.5% of our study) had a significant MLS in the brain (defined by an MLS of more than 5 mm) diagnosed by TCS. Analyzing CT brain results revealed that out of the total 112 patients under study, 27 had a significant brain MLS (24.1% of the total population under study) as defined above.

CONCLUSION

A TCS is a promising alternative to a brain CT in an emergency for brain MLS detection.

Assessment of Midline Shift in Postdecompressive Craniectomy Patients in Neurocritical Care: Comparison between Transcranial Ultrasonography and Computerized Tomography

Background

Monitoring and evaluation of intracranial structures remain a fundamental element in the neurointensive care unit. Most used technique to monitor progression is the use of computed tomography (CT) in intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or stroke. Rapid assessment of brain pathology can be made using CT to analyze the midline shift (MLS), hematoma expansion, and ventricular size, but transferring a patient who is intubated is time and resource-consuming task. Ultrasonography is a noninvasive technique, portable, and has the possibility of fast interpretation.

Aims and Objectives

To measure the brain MLS in decompressive craniectomy patients using transcranial ultrasonography (TCS) and compare the correlation of these results with CT scan measurements of MLS in the same patient.

Materials and Methods

Patients who have undergone decompressive craniectomy due to various reasons like ICH, traumatic brain injury, etc., and have a MLS. Trans cranial ultrasonography was assessed by a single consultant (Neuro Critical Care Intensivist) who was blinded for the CT scan measurement. CT scan measurement of MLS was assessed by a neuroradiologist using standard guidelines, who was blinded for the TCS results of MLS. The finding of a MLS >0.5 cm in the CT scan was considered a significant MLS.

Results

A total of 31 patients were recruited for the study. MLS measured using CT was 0.91 ± 0.67 cm. MLS via TCS was 0.91 ± 0.66 cm. A significant MLS via TCS was found in 77.4%. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated between CT-MLS and TCS MLS and obtained the value of ICC as 0.996, indicating an almost perfect agreement.

Conclusion

Patients after decompressive craniectomy may present as an ideal candidate to visualize intracerebral anatomy with a high resolution. TCS might be considered as an alternative to CT to measure MLS in decompressive craniectomy patients.

Establishing proof of concept for sonolucent cranioplasty and point of care ultrasound imaging after posterior fossa decompression for Chiari malformation

BACKGROUND

Evaluation after posterior fossa decompression for Chiari malformation can require repeated imaging, particularly with persistent symptoms. Typically, CT or MRI is used. However, CT carries radiation risk and MRI is costly. Ultrasound is an inexpensive, radiation-free, point-of-care modality that has, thus far, been limited by intact skull and traditional cranioplasty materials. Ultrasound also allows for imaging in different head positions and body postures, which may lend insight into cause for persistent symptoms despite adequate decompression on traditional neutral static CT or MRI. We evaluate safety and feasibility of ultrasound as a post-operative imaging modality in patients reconstructed with sonolucent cranioplasty during posterior fossa decompression for Chiari malformation.

METHODS

Outcomes were analyzed for 26 consecutive patients treated with a Chiari-specific sonolucent cranioplasty. This included infection, need for revision, CSF leak, and pseudomeningocele. Ultrasound was performed point-of-care in the outpatient clinic by the neurosurgery team to assess feasibility.

RESULTS

In eight months mean follow up, there were no surgical site infections or revisions with this novel sonolucent cranioplasty. Posterior fossa anatomy was discernable via transcutaneous ultrasound obtained point-of-care in the clinic setting at follow up visits.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate proof of concept for ultrasound as a post-operative imaging modality after posterior fossa decompression for Chiari malformation. With further investigation, ultrasound may prove to serve as an alternative to CT and MRI in this patient population, or as an adjunct to provide positional and dynamic information. Use of sonolucent cranioplasty is safe. This technique deserves further study.

Assessment of cerebral blood flow velocities, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter by ultrasound in patients undergoing elective craniotomy: A prospective observational feasibility study

BACKGROUND

Brain ultrasound allows measuring the cerebral flow velocity, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter. Literature is scarce in determining the feasibility to perioperatively perform these measurements altogether and the cerebrovascular behavior in patients scheduled for elective craniotomy.

METHODS

We assessed bilateral cerebral flow velocities, composite index, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter by cerebral ultrasound in patients scheduled for elective craniotomy before anesthetic induction, at extubation, and at 6 and 24 h after. The aim was to assess the feasibility of brain ultrasound in patients for elective craniotomy and to describe the changes in cerebral flow velocities, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter from baseline values at different times in the postoperative period.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients were included, of these two were excluded from analysis due to an inadequate sonographic window. There were no changes throughout the study regarding cerebral flow velocity, brain midline shift nor optic nerve sheath diameter assessments. All parameters were maintained in the physiological range without significant variations during the procedure. No perioperative complications were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study show the feasibility to perform a perioperative assessment of cerebral flow velocity, brain midline shift or optic nerve sheath diameter jointly and successfully to obtain additional information of baseline cerebral hemodynamics in patients scheduled for elective craniotomy and their postoperative changes during the first 24 h. Future studies with lager samples are needed to address the efficacy of cerebral ultrasound as a monitoring tool.

First Experience With Postoperative Transcranial Ultrasound Through Sonolucent Burr Hole Covers in Adult Hydrocephalus Patients

BACKGROUND

Managing patients with hydrocephalus and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders requires repeated head imaging. In adults, it is typically computed tomography (CT) or less commonly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, CT poses cumulative radiation risks and MRI is costly. Ultrasound is a radiation-free, relatively inexpensive, and optionally point-of-care alternative, but is prohibited by very limited windows through an intact skull.

OBJECTIVE

To describe our initial experience with transcutaneous transcranial ultrasound through sonolucent burr hole covers in postoperative hydrocephalus and CSF disorder patients.

METHODS

Using cohort study design, infection and revision rates were compared between patients who underwent sonolucent burr hole cover placement during new ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement and endoscopic third ventriculostomy over the 1-year study time period and controls from the period 1 year before. Postoperatively, trans-burr hole ultrasound was performed in the clinic, at bedside inpatient, and in the radiology suite to assess ventricular anatomy.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients with sonolucent burr hole cover were compared with 57 historical control patients. There was no statistically significant difference in infection rates between the sonolucent burr hole cover group (1/37, 2.7%) and the control group (0/57, P = .394). Revision rates were 13.5% vs 15.8% (P = 1.000), but no revisions were related to the burr hole or cranial hardware.

CONCLUSION

Trans-burr hole ultrasound is feasible for gross evaluation of ventricular caliber postoperatively in patients with sonolucent burr hole covers. There was no increase in infection rate or revision rate. This imaging technique may serve as an alternative to CT and MRI in the management of select patients with hydrocephalus and CSF disorders.

Ultrasonography for Serial Monitoring and Management of Cerebrospinal Fluid Dynamic Disorders After Decompressive Craniectomy

Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is widely used to treat intracranial hypertension following severe head injury. However, impairments of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hydrodynamics such as hydrocephalus and subdural effusion are common complications that occur after DC. Therefore, monitoring of intracranial pressure is a staple of neurocritical care post-DC. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of transcranial duplex sonography (TDS) for serial monitoring and management of CSF disorders after DC.

Identification of intracranial hemorrhage progression by transcranial point-of-care ultrasound in a patient with prior hemicraniectomy: a case report

Transcranial ultrasound has been described as a tool to identify intracranial pathology, however, it is seldom used in the adult patient population due to poor imaging windows and rapid availability of more advanced imaging such as CT and MRI. We report a unique population in which transcranial ultrasound may be beneficial: those with a history of hemicraniectomy. We present a case of a 65-year-old male with a history of hemicraniectomy who suffered head trauma after a fall from his wheelchair. An initial non-contrast head CT scan identified an intracranial hemorrhage. Point-of-care bedside transcranial ultrasound was able to identify the progression of intracranial hemorrhage, which was confirmed by interval head CT. This prompted repeat CT imaging followed by neurosurgical intervention with the placement of an external ventricular drain in the right lateral ventricle. While ultrasound is unlikely to replace the need for more advanced imaging in these patients, point-of-care transcranial ultrasound may be a useful tool that can be employed rapidly at the bedside for interval screening in patients with hemicraniectomy and concern for new or worsening intracranial hemorrhage.

Intracranial hemorrhage detected through a craniotomy site with point of care ultrasound

A 60-year-old male presented to the emergency department with acute change in mental status while recovering from a recent hemicraniectomy. During evaluation by the emergency physician, a point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) was performed using the patient's existing craniectomy site as a sonographic window. Multiple areas of intracranial hemorrhage were visualized on POCUS and head computed tomography scan ultimately requiring urgent neurosurgical intervention. Our case report demonstrates an innovative application of POCUS in the emergency department- setting that has potential to expedite diagnosis and management of life-threatening neurosurgical etiologies, such as hemorrhage and midline shift, in a unique patient population.

Role of Ultrasound in Neurocritical Care

Bedside point of care ultrasound has acquired an extremely significant role in diagnosis and management of neurocritical care, just as it has in other specialties. Easy availability and increasing expertise have allowed the intensivists to use it in a wide array of situations, such as confirming clinical findings as well as for interventional and prognostic purposes. At present, the clinical applications of ultrasonography (USG) in a neurosurgical patient include estimation of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), assessment of cerebral blood flow (CBF) and velocities, diagnosis of intracranial mass lesion and midline shifts, and examination of pupils, apart from the systemic applications. Transcranial sonography has also found use in the diagnosis of the cerebral circulatory arrest. An increasing number of clinicians are now relying on the use of ultrasound in the neurointensive care unit for neurological as well as non-neurological indications. These uses include the diagnosis of shock, respiratory failure, deep vein thrombosis and performing bedside procedures.

Mild to Severe Neurological Manifestations of COVID-19: Cases Reports

The main focus of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection is pulmonary complications through virus-related neurological manifestations, ranging from mild to severe, such as encephalitis, cerebral thrombosis, neurocognitive (dementia-like) syndrome, and delirium. The hospital screening procedures for quickly recognizing neurological manifestations of COVID-19 are often complicated by other coexisting symptoms and can be obscured by the deep sedation procedures required for critically ill patients. Here, we present two different case-reports of COVID-19 patients, describing neurological complications, diagnostic imaging such as olfactory bulb damage (a mild and unclear underestimated complication) and a severe and sudden thrombotic stroke complicated with hemorrhage with a low-level cytokine storm and respiratory symptom resolution. We discuss the possible mechanisms of virus entrance, together with the causes of COVID-19-related encephalitis, olfactory bulb damage, ischemic stroke, and intracranial hemorrhage.

Reliability of transcranial sonography for assessment of brain midline shift in adult neurocritical patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the reliability of transcranial sonography as an alternative to computed tomography for evaluation of brain midline shift in adult neurocritical patients.

EVIDENCE AQUISITION

The PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched. Original studies evaluating brain midline shift in adult neurocritical patients using both transcranial sonography and computed tomography were eligible. Primary outcome measure was concordance between both methods as quantified in terms of concordance correlation coefficient. Secondary outcome measure was limits of agreement, defined as mean difference between sonography and computed tomography plus and minus 1.96 standard deviations.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Twelve studies (574 patients, 689 examinations) were eligible. Ten studies (416 patients, 492 examinations) provided adequate data for evaluation of concordance. Pooling of effect sizes showed strong concordance between both methods (concordance correlation coefficient, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.87 to 0.94). Two missing studies were imputed and effect size was adjusted to 0.88 (95% CI, 0.81 to 0.93). Nine studies (442 patients, 571 examinations) provided adequate data for estimation of limits of agreement. Pooling of effect sizes showed a bias of -0.53 mm (95% limits of agreement, -1.22 to 0.16 mm). Four missing studies were imputed and bias was adjusted to -0.68 mm (95% limits of agreement, -1.31 to -0.04 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

Transcranial sonography may serve as reliable alternative to computed tomography for evaluation of brain midline shift in adult neurocritical patients. Both methods have strong concordance with acceptably narrow limits of agreement.

Transcranial Sonography versus CT for Postoperative Monitoring After Decompressive Craniectomy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Computed tomography (CT) is the actual gold standard diagnostic tool for monitoring patients after decompressive craniectomy. It is validated and provides a wide number of information. However, it takes time, expensive, and requires patient transportation. Transcranial sonography (TCS) could represent an alternative diagnostic tool in these patients. The aim of this study is to compare TCS versus CT scan after decompressive craniectomy in terms of diagnosing complications and costs evaluation.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 10 craniectomized patients who were monitored with sonography and CT. Ventricular measurements and possible complications were evaluated by two independent observers. The two methods were compared using Fisher's exact test and Spearman's Rho coefficient. A costs analysis was also conducted.

RESULTS

A good correlation coefficient (ρ) between CT and TCS was found for frontal horn dimensions (ρ .9929), median cella (ρ .9516), and third ventricle (ρ .8989). All results were statistically significant (P < .0001) and Bland-Altman plots showed no systemic biases. Fisher's exact test showed no statistically significant differences between TCS and CT for all the studied predefined complications. Cost analysis showed a 68% cost reduction in favor of TCS.

CONCLUSIONS

TCS could be a reliable alternative diagnostic tool for major complications in patients undergoing decompressive craniectomy. It could limit the number of CT scans per patient overcoming several limitations, such as costs, radiation exposure, and need to move the patient.

Bedside Sonographic Duplex Technique as a Monitoring Tool in Patients after Decompressive Craniectomy: A Single Centre Experience

Background and objectives: Bedside sonographic duplex technique (SDT) may be used as an adjunct to cranial computed tomography (CCT) to monitor brain-injured patients after decompressive craniectomy (DC). The present study aimed to assess the value of SDT in repeated measurements of ventricle dimensions in patients after DC by comparing both techniques. Materials and Methods: Retrospective assessment of 20 consecutive patients after DC for refractory intracranial pressure (ICP) increase following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), bleeding and trauma which were examined by SDT and CCT in the context of routine clinical practice. Whenever a repeated CCT was clinically indicated SDT examinations were performed within 24 hours and correlated via measurement of the dimensions of all four cerebral ventricles. Basal cerebral arteries including pathologies such as vasospasms were also evaluated in comparison to selected digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Results: Repeated measurements of all four ventricle diameters showed high correlation between CCT and SDT (right lateral r = 0.997, p < 0.001; left lateral r = 0.997, p < 0.001; third r = 0.991, p < 0.001, fourth ventricle r = 0.977, p < 0.001). SDT performed well in visualizing basal cerebral arteries including pathologies (e.g., vasospasms) as compared to DSA. Conclusions: Repeated SDT measurements of the dimensions of all four ventricles in patients after DC for refractory ICP increase delivered reproducible results comparable to CCT. SDT may be considered as a valuable bedside monitoring tool in patients after DC.

Use of a Doppler-Based Pulsatility Index to Evaluate Cerebral Hemodynamics in Neurocritical Patients After Hemicraniectomy

OBJECTIVES

As a noninvasive method for evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics, the correct interpretation of transcranial Doppler or transcranial imaging (TCI) data remains a major challenge. We explored how to interpret the pulsatility index (PI) derived via TCI during evaluations of cerebral hemodynamics in posthemicraniectomy patients.

METHODS

We included patients who underwent invasive arterial pressure and intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring and simultaneous TCI examinations after hemicraniectomy. We classified the PI of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) into ipsilateral (craniectomy side) and contralateral (opposite side) and analyzed both data sets. The statistical analysis was performed by the Bland-Altman approach, by calculating intraclass correlation coefficients and Spearman correlations, and by drawing receiver operating characteristic curves. Pulsatility index probability charts were created for ICPs exceeding 20, 25, and 30 mm Hg and cerebral perfusion pressures (CPPs) lower than 70, 60, and 50 mm Hg; we thus explored defined ICP and CPP values.

RESULTS

The ipsilateral and contralateral MCA PI data differed. Only the ipsilateral MCA PI showed a weak correlation with ICP (r = 0.378; P < .001). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed limited diagnostic utility of bilateral MCA PIs for ICP and CPP assessments. An extremely elevated MCA PI indicated that patients were at high risk of a dangerous ICP elevation or CPP reduction. However, MCA PI values within the normal range did not effectively rule out an ICP of 20 mm Hg or higher but effectively eliminated a CPP lower than 50 mm Hg.

CONCLUSIONS

In posthemicraniectomy patients, the Doppler-based MCA PI value was ineffectively for quantitative ICP and CPP evaluations but a useful index for assessment of cerebral hemodynamics in terms of the probability of an ICP elevation or a CPP reduction.

Cerebral Ventricular Dimensions After Decompressive Craniectomy: A Comparison Between Bedside Sonographic Duplex Technique and Cranial Computed Tomography

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to assess and compare ventricle diameters in patients after decompressive craniectomy by using cranial computed tomography (CCT) versus sonographic duplex technique (SDT).

METHODS

A total of 102 consecutive patients after decompressive craniectomy following brain infarct, bleeding and trauma were examined by CCT and SDT. SDT was performed within 24 h after repeated postinterventional control CCT and the correlation between both methods was assessed via measurement of dimensions of all four ventricles. In addition, midline shifts and overall cerebral anatomy was evaluated.

RESULTS

A high correlation was found between CCT and SDT in measuring the diameters of all four ventricles (right lateral r = 0.978, p < 0.001; left lateral r = 0.975, p < 0.001; third r = 0.987, p < 0.001 and fourth ventricle r = 0.954, p < 0.001). Deviations of midline structure was observed in SDT as well as in CCT (r = 0.992, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

SDT in patients after decompressive craniectomy may represent an additional bedside tool to assess the dimensions of the ventricular system, anatomical structures, e.g., subdural hygromas, hematomas, midline shifts, gyri and sulci. The measurement of the dimensions of all four ventricles by using SDT delivers accurate values and may be considered as an alternative to CCT or a trigger for CCT prior to further treatment.

Transcranial Doppler ultrasound in neurocritical care

Multimodality monitoring is a common practice in caring for neurocritically ill patients, and consists mainly in clinical assessment, intracranial pressure monitoring and using several imaging methods. Of these imaging methods, transcranial Doppler (TCD) is an interesting tool that provides a non-invasive, portable and radiation-free way to assess cerebral circulation and diagnose and follow-up (duplex method) intracranial mass-occupying lesions, such as hematomas and midline shift. This article reviews the basics of TCD applied to neurocritical care patients, offering a rationale for its use as well as tips for practitioners.

Comparison between Brain Computed Tomography Scan and Transcranial Sonography to Evaluate Third Ventricle Width, Peri-Mesencephalic Cistern, and Sylvian Fissure in Traumatic Brain-Injured Patients

Introduction

Transcranial color-coded duplex sonography (TCCS) may help guide multimodal monitoring in the neurocritical setting. It may provide indirect information about intracranial hypertension, such as midline shift, third ventricle width, and peri-mesencephalic cistern obliteration. We aim to assess the agreement between brain computed tomography scan (CT scan) and TCCS in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients.

Methods

In this retrospective cross-sectional observational study, TCCS was performed within 6 h before a brain CT scan. Only the first CT and TCCS after ICU admission were included. The agreement between the CT scan and TCCS was assessed by Bland–Altman plots and evaluating the intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results

Overall, 15 consecutive patients were included (80% male, 42 ± 23 years of age, Glasgow Coma Score 5 [4,6]). The mean difference between the brain CT scan and TCCS in measuring the midline shift was 0.30 ± 2.1 mm (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.93; p < 0.01). An excellent correlation was also observed between the methods in assessing the third ventricle width (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.88; p < 0.01). Bland–Altman plots did not show any systematic bias in either agreement analysis. TCCS showed good accuracy in predicting non-compressed peri-mesencephalic cisterns (AUC: 0.83, 95% CI 0.46–1.0) and the presence of the Sylvian fissure (AUC: 0.91, 95% CI 0.73–1.0) on CT scan.

Conclusion

TCCS is a promising tool and may be an alternative to CT scans for evaluating TBI patients.

Echography in brain imaging in intensive care unit: State of the art

Transcranial sonography (TCS) is an ultrasound-based imaging technique, which allows the identification of several structures within the brain parenchyma. In the past it has been applied for bedside assessment of different intracranial pathologies in children. Presently, TCS is also used on adult patients to diagnose intracranial space occupying lesions of various origins, intracranial hemorrhage, hydrocephalus, midline shift and neurodegenerative movement disorders, in both acute and chronic clinical settings. In comparison with conventional neuroimaging methods (such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance), TCS has the advantages of low costs, short investigation times, repeatability, and bedside availability. These noninvasive characteristics, together with the possibility of offering a continuous patient neuro-monitoring system, determine its applicability in the monitoring of multiple emergency and non-emergency settings. Currently, TCS is a still underestimated imaging modality that requires a wider diffusion and a qualified training process. In this review we focused on the main indications of TCS for the assessment of acute neurologic disorders in intensive care unit.

Rapid detection of recurrent intraventricular hemorrhage by ultrasound in a multiple trauma patient who had undergone craniectomy

Ultrasound may be a useful tool to evaluate intracranial abnormalities in critically ill patients undergoing decompressive craniectomy. We present a multiple trauma patient who had undergone craniectomy and in whom recurrent intraventricular hemorrhage and patterns of cerebral blood flow were rapidly detected by ultrasound.