Evaluation of intracranial pressure by transcranial Doppler ultrasonography in dogs with intracranial hypertension

Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD) has been used to confirm changes in cerebral hemodynamics. In this study, we investigated whether the param eters for the basilar artery measured by TCD were correlated with the intra cranial and cerebral perfusion pressures in extreme intracranial hypertensi on. An intracranial hypertension model was produced in seven dogs by inflat ing a balloon inserted into the epidural space. The resistance index was co mpared with the corresponding intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure values during intracranial hypertension. A significant correlation was recognized between the resistance index and cerebral perfusion pressur e. Therefore, measurement of the basilar artery by TCD in the dog with intr acranial hypertension is useful in estimating the intracranial circulation in cases where the measurement of intracranial pressure is not available or not indicated.