The possible role of CSF hydrodynamic parameters following in management of SAH patients.

Abstract

It is suggested that reduced intracranial compliance may be present even when measured ICP is normal and may precede clinical deterioration. Our findings reflect a decompensation of hydrodynamic parameters more pronounced 4-7 postictal days, when compliance is reduced not only in patients with poor clinical condition, but also in patients with Hunt-Hess grade I-III. Increased CSF outflow resistance in the first few days is not surprising; it is thought to be due to the blockage of flow of CSF through the basal subarachnoid cisterns and clogging of the arachnoid villi with erythrocytes and fibrin. Enlargement of ventricles seen on CT scan at the same time suggests the development of acute hydrocephalus. During the first days after SAH, our data reflects evidence of ventricular enlargement in patients presenting with both poor and better clinical condition. We conclude that the monitoring of ICP and dynamic measuring of CSF hydrodynamic parameters is important for longer than the generally accepted few days for selected cases after SAH.