This week, we asked VETbytes: “what are the treatment aims when managing a case with head trauma or traumatic brain injury?”. After your initial assessment, our vets recommend the following treatment aims, but first, remember:
Cerebral perfusion pressure = MAP – ICP
If ICP > MAP there is no cerebral perfusion
Optimise MAP
- i/v fluids
- +/- blood products
- +/- vasopressor support
Reduce ICP
- Avoid hypoxaemia
- Avoid hypercapnia or hypocapnia
- Promote venous drainage by elevating the upper body by 15–30 degrees
- Manage seizures
- Control pain
- Reduce cerebral oedema with hypertonic saline or mannitol
To access the full clinical guide for head trauma and traumatic brain injury subscribe to VETbytes for £9.99/month or £99/year or start your free 30-day trial today! BSAVA members receive 33% discount and BSAVA 1st year qualified members 6 months FREE access, click here to find out more.
If you have any questions about using VETbytes, get in touch with the team today.