Resumo

THIESEN, Rosana A. et al. Influence of the respiratory physioterapy on intracranial pressure in severe head trauma patients. Arq. Neuro-Psiquiatr. [online]. 2005, vol.63, n.1, pp. 110-113. ISSN 0004-282X.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0004-282X2005000100020.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate influence of the respiratory physiotherapy on intracranial pressure (ICP) in patients with severe head trauma. METHOD: Thirty five patients with severe head trauma were included in the study.The patients were divided into three groups: ICP 0-10, 11-20 and 21-30 mmHg. The following variables were measured: ICP and mean arterial pressure. Cerebral perfusion pressure was calculated as the difference between mean arterial and intracranial pressure. RESULTS: Endotracheal aspiration increased ICP in all patients. The mean arterial pressure didn't change and cerebral perfusion pressure decreased, but remaning normal value. CONCLUSION: Respiratory physiotherapy maneuvers can be safely applied in patients with severe head trauma with ICP below 30 mmHg. More attention should be taken during endotracheal aspiration .

Palavras-chave : head injury; respiratory physioterapy; intracranial pressure; cerebral perfusion pressure.