Electroencephalogram-based prediction and detection of responsiveness to noxious stimulation in critical care patients: a retrospective single-centre analysis

Abstract

BackgroundMonitoring of pain and nociception in critical care patients unable to self-report pain remains a challenge, as clinical signs are neither sensitive nor specific. Available technical approaches are limited by various constraints. We investigated the electroencephalogram (EEG) for correlates that precede or coincide with behavioural nociceptive responses to noxious stimulation. MethodsIn this retrospective study, we analysed frontal EEG recordings of 64 critical care patients who were tracheally intubated and ventilated before, during, and after tracheal suctioning. We investigated EEG power bands for correlates preceding or coinciding with behavioural responses (Behavioural Pain Scale ≥7). We applied the Mann–Whitney U-test to calculate corresponding P-values. ResultsStrong behavioural responses were preceded by higher normalised power in the 2.5–5 Hz band (+17.1%; P<0.001) and lower normalised power in the 0.1–1.5 Hz band (–10.5%; P=0.029). After the intervention, strong behavioural responses were associated with higher normalised EEG power in the 2.5–5 Hz band (+16.6%; P=0.021) and lower normalised power in the 8–12 Hz band (–51.2%; P=0.037) ConclusionsWe observed correlates in EEG band power that precede and coincide with behavioural responses to noxious stimulation. Based on previous findings, some of the power bands could be linked to processing of nociception, arousal, or sedation effects. The power bands more closely related to nociception and arousal could be used to improve monitoring of nociception and to optimise analgesic management in critical care patients. Clinical trial registrationDRKS00011206.