Plateau Waves, Intracranial Hypertension and Prognosis. How Identical Waves can Lead to Different Outcomes in Two Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) can lead to secondary brain damage and is associated with worst outcome in patients with traumatic brain injury. We present two clinical cases of high ICP due plateau waves. This, frequently occurring cause of high ICP, can cause confusion at the bedside if not recognized. High ICP due to plateau waves has a different prognostic implication and treatment algorithm compared to other causes of high ICP. We describe the pathophysiology and management of this phenomenon.