Article
Repetitive measurement of cerebral ventricular dimensions in patients with decompressive craniectomy: bedside sonographic duplex technique compared to cranial computed tomography
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Published: | June 9, 2017 |
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Outline
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Objective: Recently we have shown the reliable evaluation of all four cerebral ventricles via SDT and the high correlation of the measurements with sonographic duplex technique (SDT) and CCT in patients after decompressive craniectomy (DC). The objective of this study was to assess the reliability of the values by repetitive measurements in a patient.
Methods: 20 consecutive patients after DC following trauma, brain infarct and bleeding were examined by SDT and CCT. If clinically indicated, for example in cases with persisting ICP or neuroworsening in the postinterventional sequelae, craniectomized patients underwent a CCT control. In timely context within 24 hours after CCT exam SDT (Hitachi-Aloka Arietta V70, Convex probe 5-2, mechanical Index 0.8 to 1.2) was performed. In these patients repetitive measurements were done.
Results: The dimensions of all four ventricles, midline shifts and differential cerebral anatomy could be visualized in SDT corresponding to CCT in each repeated measurement. For instance structures like the cerebellum, the basal cisterns and other parts of the brainstem were adequately identified in SDT every time. In repetitive measuring the diameters of all four ventricles the values obtained with SDT and CCT show a high and significant correlation. Even minimal changes of the diameters of the ventricles could be recorded with SDT as well as with CCT (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: In addition repetitive measurements of the dimensions of all four ventricles by using SDT in the same individual after DC deliver reliable values and show a high correlation to CCT. Therefore SDT may be a valid option as a bedside tool to supplement CCT scans after DC especially for follow-ups in patients risky for CCT transports.