The application of microdialysis to monitoring in neurointensive care

Mr Peter Hutchinson
University Department of Neurosurgery, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge
January 1998 - December 1999
The treatment of patients with neurosurgical conditions such as head injury and stroke is guided by monitoring techniques. This research project involved measuring substances in the brain that are thought to be harmful following brain injury. A new device was manufactured that allowed sampling of brain fluid as well as measurement of pressure and oxygen levels within the brain. It is hoped to introduce drugs that will counteract the effects of harmful chemicals found in the brain fluid after injury, thereby leading to improved outcomes for this group of patients.