Propofol for sedation and control of intracranial pressure in children

Following central nervous system insults, control of intracranial pressure may lessen the incidence of morbidity and mortality. Therapies to control i ntracranial pressure include osmolar agents, prevention of and control of s eizures, drainage of cerebrospinal fluid, hypothermia, and barbiturates. Co ntrol of agitation and excessive patient movement are additional components in the management of ICP. Although opioids and benzodiazepines are general ly effective, in a small subset of patients, alternative agents may be nece ssary. The authors present 2 children with increased ICP in whom propofol w as used to provide sedation and control ICP. The use of propofol in this se tting and its possible applications in the children with increased ICP are discussed. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.