Cardiovascular monitoring

Abstract

Most patients with severe TBI are young with no pre-existing cardiac problems. Other TBI patients may suffer from associated multiple trauma or pre-existing cardiac disease. The intensivist is challenged by the overall goal of obtaining cardiovascular stability in order to prevent development of cerebral ischaemia and secondary injury. The aim of haemodynamic monitoring is to alert the team to crisis before it occurs and to diagnose, treat and monitor response of the cardiovascular system to treatment.