What is the optimal threshold for cerebral perfusion pressure following traumatic brain injury?

Abstract

Intensive care of the patient with traumatic brain injury centers on control of intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP). The optimal CPP by definition delivers an adequate supply of blood and oxygen to meet the metabolic demands of brain tissue. A great deal of controversy exists regarding the optimal CPP value, with disparate studies providing conflicting evidence for the use of supraphysiological CPP values. No study that accurately assesses the efficacy of normal CPP compared with elevated CPP has been performed, but several studies demonstrate that a CPP threshold exists on an individual basis for patients with TBI. The use of brain monitors of cerebral metabolism and oxygen supply may assist the clinician in the selection of the optimal CPP for an individual patient.