Management of severe head injury: institutional variations in care and effect on outcome

Outcome after decompressive craniectomy in older adults after traumatic brain injury

Objective

Globally, many societies are experiencing an increase in the number of older adults (>65 years). However, there has been a widening gap between the chronological and biological age of older adults which trend to a more active and social participating part of the society. Concurrently, the incidence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) is increasing globally. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcome after TBI and decompressive craniectomy (DC) in older adults compared with younger patients.

Methods

A retrospective, multi-centre, descriptive, observational study was conducted, including severe TBI patients who were treated with DC between 2005 and 2022. Outcome after discharge and 12 months was evaluated according to the Glasgow Outcome Scale (Sliding dichotomy based on three prognostic bands). Significance was established as p ≤ 0.05.

Results

A total of 223 patients were included. The majority (N = 158, 70.9%) survived TBI and DC at discharge. However, unfavourable outcome was predominant at discharge (88%) and after 12 months (67%). There was a difference in favour of younger patients (≤65 years) between the age groups at discharge (p = 0.006) and at 12 months (p < 0.001). A subgroup analysis of the older patients (66 to ≤74 vs. ≥75 years) did not reveal any significant differences. After 12 months, 64% of the older patients had a fatal outcome. Only 10% of those >65 years old had a good or very good outcome. 25% were depending on support in everyday activities. After 12 months, the age (OR 0.937, p = 0.007, CI 95%: 0.894-0.981; univariate) and performed cranioplasty (univariate and multivariate results) were influential factors for the dichotomized GOS. For unfavourable outcome after 12 months, the thresholds were calculated for age = 55.5 years (p < 0.001), time between trauma and surgery = 8.25 h (p = 0.671) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) = 4 (p = 0.429).

Conclusion

Even under the current modern conditions of neuro-critical care, with significant advances in intensive care and rehabilitation medicine, the majority of patients >65 years of age following severe TBI and DC died or were dependent and usually required extensive support. This aspect should also be taken into account during decision making and counselling (inter-, intradisciplinary or with relatives) for a very mobile and active older section of society, together with the patient's will.

Surrogate Perception of Disability after Hospitalization for Traumatic Brain Injury

BACKGROUND

The Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) is a measure of recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Public surveys rate some GOSE states as worse than death. Direct family experience caring for patients with TBI may impact views of post-TBI disability.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a national cross-sectional computer-adaptive survey of surrogates of TBI dependents incurring injury more than 1 year earlier. Using a standard gamble approach in randomized order, surrogates evaluated preferences for post-TBI GOSE states from GOSE 2 (bedridden, unaware) to GOSE 8 (good recovery). We calculated median (interquartile range [IQR]) health utilities for each post-TBI state, ranging from -1 to 1, with 0 as reference (death = GOSE 1), and assessed sociodemographic associations using proportional odds logistic regression modeling.

RESULTS

Of 515 eligible surrogates, 298 (58%) completed scenarios. Surrogates were median aged 46 (IQR 35 to 60), 54% married, with Santa Clara strength of faith 14 (10 to 18). TBI dependents had a median GOSE5 (3 to 7). Median (IQR) health utility ratings for GOSE 2, GOSE 3, and GOSE 4 were -0.06 (-0.50 to -0.01), -0.01 (-0.30 to 0.45), and 0.30 (-0.01 to 0.80), rated worse than death by 91%, 65%, and 40%, respectively. Surrogates rated GOSE 4 (daily partial help) worse than the general population. Married surrogates rated GOSE 4 higher (p < 0.01). Higher strength of faith was associated with higher utility scores across GOSE states (p = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

In this index study of surrogate perceptions about disability after TBI, poor neurologic outcomes-vegetative, needing all-day or partial daily assistance-were perceived as worse than death by at least 1 in 3 surrogates. Surrogate perceptions differed from the unexposed public. Long-term perceptions about post-TBI disability may inform earlier, tailored shared decision-making after neurotrauma.

The Roles of Protocols and Protocolization in Improving Outcome From Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Our Phase-I parallel-cohort study suggested that managing severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) in the absence of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring using an ad hoc Imaging and Clinical Examination (ICE) treatment protocol was associated with superior outcome vs nonprotocolized management but could not differentiate the influence of protocolization from that of the specific protocol. Phase II investigates whether adopting the Consensus REVised Imaging and Clinical Examination (CREVICE) protocol improved outcome directly or indirectly via protocolization.

METHODS

We performed a Phase-II sequential parallel-cohort study examining adoption of the CREVICE protocol from no protocol vs a previous protocol in patients with sTBI older than 13 years presenting ≤24 hours after injury. Primary outcome was prespecified 6-month recovery. The study was done mostly at public South American centers managing sTBI without ICP monitoring. Fourteen Phase-I nonprotocol centers and 5 Phase-I protocol centers adopted CREVICE. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equation regression adjusting for demographic imbalances.

RESULTS

A total of 501 patients (86% male, mean age 35.4 years) enrolled; 81% had 6 months of follow-up. Adopting CREVICE from no protocol was associated with significantly superior results for overall 6-month extended Glasgow Outcome Score (GOSE) (protocol effect = 0.53 [0.11, 0.95], P = .013), mortality (36% vs 21%, HR = 0.59 [0.46, 0.76], P < .001), and orientation (Galveston Orientation and Amnesia Test discharge protocol effect = 10.9 [6.0, 15.8], P < .001, 6-month protocol effect = 11.4 [4.1, 18.6], P < .005). Adopting CREVICE from ICE was associated with significant benefits to GOSE (protocol effect = 0.51 [0.04, 0.98], P = .033), 6-month mortality (25% vs 18%, HR = 0.55 [0.39, 0.77], P < .001), and orientation (Galveston Orientation and Amnesia Test 6-month protocol effect = 9.2 [3.6, 14.7], P = .004). Comparing both groups using CREVICE, those who had used ICE previously had significantly better GOSE (protocol effect = 1.15 [0.09, 2.20], P = .033).

CONCLUSION

Centers managing adult sTBI without ICP monitoring should strongly consider protocolization through adopting/adapting the CREVICE protocol. Protocolization is indirectly supported at sTBI centers regardless of resource availability.

The effect of age on clinical outcomes in critically ill brain-injured patients

PURPOSE

We studied the impact of age on survival and functional recovery in brain-injured patients.

METHODS

We performed an observational cohort study of all consecutive adult patients with brain injury admitted to ICU in 8 years. To estimate the optimal cut-off point of the age associated with unfavorable outcomes (mRS 3-6), receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were used. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors for unfavorable outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 619 brain-injured patients. We identified 60 years as the cut-off point at which the probability of unfavorable outcomes increases. Patients ≥ 60 years had higher severity scores at ICU admission, longer duration of mechanical ventilation, longer ICU and hospital stays, and higher mortality. Factors identified as associated with unfavorable outcomes (mRS 3-6) were an advanced age (≥ 60 years) [Odds ratio (OR) 4.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.73-7.74, p < 0.001], a low GCS score (≤ 8 points) [OR 3.72, 95% CI 1.95-7.08, p < 0.001], the development of intracranial hypertension [OR 5.52, 95% CI 2.70-11.28, p < 0.001], and intracerebral hemorrhage as the cause of neurologic disease [OR 3.87, 95% CI 2.34-6.42, p < 0.001].

CONCLUSION

Mortality and unfavorable functional outcomes in critically ill brain-injured patients were associated with older age (≥ 60 years), higher clinical severity (determined by a lower GCS score at admission and the development of intracranial hypertension), and an intracerebral hemorrhage as the cause of neurologic disease.

Management Strategies Based on Multi-Modality Neuromonitoring in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

Secondary brain injury after neurotrauma is comprised of a host of distinct, potentially concurrent and interacting mechanisms that may exacerbate primary brain insult. Multimodality neuromonitoring is a method of measuring multiple aspects of the brain in order to understand the signatures of these different pathomechanisms and to detect, treat, or prevent potentially reversible secondary brain injuries. The most studied invasive parameters include intracranial pressure (ICP), cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), autoregulatory indices, brain tissue partial oxygen tension, and tissue energy and metabolism measures such as the lactate pyruvate ratio. Understanding the local metabolic state of brain tissue in order to infer pathology and develop appropriate management strategies is an area of active investigation. Several clinical trials are underway to define the role of brain tissue oxygenation monitoring and electrocorticography in conjunction with other multimodal neuromonitoring information, including ICP and CPP monitoring. Identifying an optimal CPP to guide individualized management of blood pressure and ICP has been shown to be feasible, but definitive clinical trial evidence is still needed. Future work is still needed to define and clinically correlate patterns that emerge from integrated measurements of metabolism, pressure, flow, oxygenation, and electrophysiology. Pathophysiologic targets and precise critical care management strategies to address their underlying causes promise to mitigate secondary injuries and hold the potential to improve patient outcome. Advancements in clinical trial design are poised to establish new standards for the use of multimodality neuromonitoring to guide individualized clinical care.

Alcohol intake before injury and functional and survival outcomes after traumatic brain injury: Pan-Asian trauma outcomes study (PATOS)

There are controversies about the effects of alcohol intake shortly before injury on prognosis of traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. We investigated the association between alcohol intake and functional/survival outcomes in TBI patients, and whether this effect varied according to age and sex. This was a prospective international multicenter cohort study using the Pan-Asian trauma outcomes study registry in Asian-Pacific countries, conducted on adult patients with TBI who visited participating hospitals. The main exposure variable was alcohol intake before injury, and the main outcomes were poor functional recovery (modified Rankin Scale score, 4-6) and in-hospital mortality. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to estimate the effects of alcohol intake on study outcomes. Interaction analysis between alcohol intake and age/sex were also performed. Among the study population of 12,451, 3263 (26.2%) patients consumed alcohol before injury. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, alcohol intake was associated with lower odds for poor functional recovery [4.4% vs 6.6%, a odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 0.68 (0.56-0.83)] and in-hospital mortality (1.9% vs 3.1%, 0.64 [0.48-0.86]). The alcohol intake had interaction effects with sex for poor functional recovery: 0.59 (0.45-0.75) for male and 0.94 (0.60-1.49) for female (P for-interaction < .01), whereas there were no interaction between alcohol intake and age. In TBI patients, alcohol intake before injury was associated with lower odds of poor functional recovery and in-hospital mortality, and these effects were maintained in the male group in the interaction analyses.

Perceived Utility of Intracranial Pressure Monitoring in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Seattle International Brain Injury Consensus Conference Consensus-Based Analysis and Recommendations

BACKGROUND

Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring is widely practiced, but the indications are incompletely developed, and guidelines are poorly followed.

OBJECTIVE

To study the monitoring practices of an established expert panel (the clinical working group from the Seattle International Brain Injury Consensus Conference effort) to examine the match between monitoring guidelines and their clinical decision-making and offer guidance for clinicians considering monitor insertion.

METHODS

We polled the 42 Seattle International Brain Injury Consensus Conference panel members' ICP monitoring decisions for virtual patients, using matrices of presenting signs (Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] total or GCS motor, pupillary examination, and computed tomography diagnosis). Monitor insertion decisions were yes, no, or unsure (traffic light approach). We analyzed their responses for weighting of the presenting signs in decision-making using univariate regression.

RESULTS

Heatmaps constructed from the choices of 41 panel members revealed wider ICP monitor use than predicted by guidelines. Clinical examination (GCS) was by far the most important characteristic and differed from guidelines in being nonlinear. The modified Marshall computed tomography classification was second and pupils third. We constructed a heatmap and listed the main clinical determinants representing 80% ICP monitor insertion consensus for our recommendations.

CONCLUSION

Candidacy for ICP monitoring exceeds published indicators for monitor insertion, suggesting the clinical perception that the value of ICP data is greater than simply detecting and monitoring severe intracranial hypertension. Monitor insertion heatmaps are offered as potential guidance for ICP monitor insertion and to stimulate research into what actually drives monitor insertion in unconstrained, real-world conditions.

Analysis of rebound intracranial pressure occurring during rewarming after therapeutic hypothermia in traumatic brain injury patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the risk factors associated with rebound intracranial pressure (ICP), a phenomenon that occurs when brain swelling reprogresses rapidly during rewarming in patients who have undergone therapeutic hypothermia for traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHODS

This study analyzed 42 patients who underwent therapeutic hypothermia among 172 patients with severe TBI admitted to a single regional trauma center between January 2017 and December 2020. Forty-two patients were classified into 34.5 °C (mild) and 33 °C (moderate) hypothermia groups according to the therapeutic hypothermia protocol for TBI. Rewarming was initiated post-hypothermia, wherein ICP was maintained at ≤ 20 mmHg and cerebral perfusion pressure was maintained at ≥ 50 mmHg for ≥ 24 h. In the rewarming protocol, the target core temperature was increased to 36.5 °C at 0.1 °C/h.

RESULTS

Of the 42 patients who underwent therapeutic hypothermia, 27 did not survive: 9 in the mild and 18 in the moderate hypothermia groups. The moderate hypothermia group had a significantly higher mortality rate than the mild hypothermia group (p = 0.013). Rebound ICP occurred in 9 of 25 patients: 2 in the mild and 7 in the moderate hypothermia groups. In the risk factor analysis of rebound ICP, only the degree of hypothermia was statistically significant, and rebound ICP was observed more frequently in the moderate than in the mild hypothermia group (p = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who underwent rewarming after therapeutic hypothermia, rebound ICP presented a higher risk at 33 °C than at 34.5 °C. Therefore, more careful rewarming is needed in patients receiving therapeutic hypothermia at 33 °C.

Testing the Impact of Protocolized Care of Patients With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Without Intracranial Pressure Monitoring: The Imaging and Clinical Examination Protocol

BACKGROUND

Most patients with severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) in low- or-middle-income countries and surprisingly many in high-income countries are managed without intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring. The impact of the first published protocol (Imaging and Clinical Examination [ICE] protocol) is untested against nonprotocol management.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether patients treated in intensive care units (ICUs) using the ICE protocol have lower mortality and better neurobehavioral functioning than those treated in ICUs using no protocol.

METHODS

This study involved nineteen mostly public South American hospitals. This is a prospective cohort study, enrolling patients older than 13 years with sTBI presenting within 24 h of injury (January 2014-July 2015) with 6-mo postinjury follow-up. Five hospitals treated all sTBI cases using the ICE protocol; 14 used no protocol. Primary outcome was prespecified composite of mortality, orientation, functional outcome, and neuropsychological measures.

RESULTS

A total of 414 patients (89% male, mean age 34.8 years) enrolled; 81% had 6 months of follow-up. All participants included in composite outcome analysis: average percentile (SD) = 46.8 (24.0) nonprotocol, 56.9 (24.5) protocol. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) used to account for center effects (confounder-adjusted difference [95% CI] = 12.2 [4.6, 19.8], P = .002). Kaplan-Meier 6-month mortality (95% CI) = 36% (30%, 43%) nonprotocol, 25% (19%, 31%) protocol (GEE and confounder-adjusted hazard ratio [95% CI] = .69 [.43, 1.10], P = .118). Six-month Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale for 332 participants: average Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale score (SD) = 3.6 (2.6) nonprotocol, 4.7 (2.8) protocol (GEE and confounder-adjusted and lost to follow-up-adjusted difference [95% CI] = 1.36 [.55, 2.17], P = .001).

CONCLUSION

ICUs managing patients with sTBI using the ICE protocol had better functional outcome than those not using a protocol. ICUs treating patients with sTBI without ICP monitoring should consider protocolization. The ICE protocol, tested here and previously, is 1 option.

The Significance of Intracranial Pressure Monitoring for Reducing Mortality in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Despite guidelines provided by the Brain Trauma Foundation (BTF) for treating patients with TBI, including advice to monitor intracranial pressure (ICP), the clinical application of ICP monitoring is far from universal. This laxity has been attributed to the relationship between mortality in TBI patients and ICP monitoring.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed at determining the effect of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring on the mortality of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Method

A systematic search for articles was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Control Trials (CENTRAL), and APA PsycNet for articles published from 1 January 2000 to 1 August 2022. Manager 5.4 was used to carry out statistical analysis.

Results

Article search yielded 1421 articles, but only 23 cohort studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The total number of study participants is 80,058. Seventeen studies reported unadjusted odds ratios (OR), and only 8 reported the adjusted odds ratio (OR). Nine out of seventeen studies reported an unadjusted OR of less than 1, and five out of eight studies reported an adjusted OR of less than 1. From this paper's analysis, the OR for in-hospital mortality was 1.01 [95% CI, 0.80, 1.28], with a p value of 0.92. OR for ICU mortality was 0.84 [95% CI, 0.52, 1.35], with a p value of 0.47.

Conclusion

But due to conflicting results, as evident above, it is unsatisfyingly challenging to draw any substantial conclusions from them. This paper thus calls for more research on this particular paper.

Discrepancies Between the Management of Fever in Young Infants Admitted From Urban General Emergency Departments and Pediatric Emergency Departments

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE

Most pediatric emergency visits occur in general emergency departments (GED). Our study aims to assess whether medical decision making regarding the management of febrile infants differs in GEDs from pediatric EDs (PED) and deviates from pediatric expert consensus.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review on patients younger than 60 days with fever admitted from 13 GEDs versus 1 PED to a children's hospital over a 3-year period. Adherence to consensus guidelines was measured by frequency of performing critical components of initial management, including blood culture, urine culture, attempted lumbar puncture, and antibiotic administration (<29 days old), or complete blood count and/or C-reactive protein, blood culture, and urine culture (29-60 days old). Additional outcomes included lumbar puncture, collecting urine specimens via catheterization, and timing of antibiotics.

RESULTS

A total of 176 patient charts were included. Sixty-four (36%) patients were younger than 29 days, and 112 (64%) were 29 to 60 days old. Eighty-eight (50%) patients were admitted from GEDs.In infants younger than 29 days managed in the GEDs (n = 32), 65.6% (n = 21) of patients underwent all 4 critical items compared with 96.9% (n = 31, P = 0.003) in the PED. In infants 29 to 60 days old managed in GEDs (n = 56), 64.3% (n = 36) patients underwent all 3 critical items compared with 91.1% (n = 51, P < 0.001) in the PED.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study suggests that providers managing young infants with fever in 13 GEDs differ significantly from providers in the PED examined and literature consensus. Inconsistent testing and treatment practices may put young infants at risk for undetected bacterial infection.

Treatment Trends and Inpatient Mortality in Isolated Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Using the National Trauma Data Bank

OBJECTIVE

Severe traumatic brain injury remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite recommendations from the Brain Trauma Foundation, there is wide variability in treatment paradigms for severe TBI. We aim to elucidate the variability of treatment, particularly neurosurgical procedures and how it affects mortality.

METHODS

Adult Patients (<65 years) with a severe isolated TBI who were treated at an ACS Level 1 trauma center were identified in the National Trauma Database for the years 2007 through 2016. ICD-9 procedure codes were used to identify primary treatment approaches: intracranial pressure monitoring and cranial surgery (craniotomy/craniectomy).

RESULTS

Among the 25,327 patients with severe isolated traumatic brain injury, 14.0% and 18.0% of total patients underwent intracranial pressure monitoring or cranial surgery, respectively. Intracranial pressure monitoring reduced the odds of mortality, OR 0.89 (0.81, 0.98), but not to the extent of cranial surgery, OR 0.71 (0.65, 0.77).

CONCLUSION

BTF guidelines recommend placement of intracranial pressure monitor for severe TBI, however only 14 % of patients with isolated, severe TBI underwent intracranial pressure monitoring from 2007 to 2016. Intracranial pressure monitoring and cranial surgery decreases the odds of inpatient mortality in patients with severe TBI.

Instrumental variable analysis to estimate treatment effects: a simulation study showing potential benefits of conditioning on hospital

Background

Instrumental variable (IV) analysis holds the potential to estimate treatment effects from observational data. IV analysis potentially circumvents unmeasured confounding but makes a number of assumptions, such as that the IV shares no common cause with the outcome. When using treatment preference as an instrument, a common cause, such as a preference regarding related treatments, may exist. We aimed to explore the validity and precision of a variant of IV analysis where we additionally adjust for the provider: adjusted IV analysis.

Methods

A treatment effect on an ordinal outcome was simulated (beta − 0.5 in logistic regression) for 15.000 patients, based on a large data set (the IMPACT data, n = 8799) using different scenarios including measured and unmeasured confounders, and a common cause of IV and outcome. We compared estimated treatment effects with patient-level adjustment for confounders, IV with treatment preference as the instrument, and adjusted IV, with hospital added as a fixed effect in the regression models.

Results

The use of patient-level adjustment resulted in biased estimates for all the analyses that included unmeasured confounders, IV analysis was less confounded, but also less reliable. With correlation between treatment preference and hospital characteristics (a common cause) estimates were skewed for regular IV analysis, but not for adjusted IV analysis.

Conclusion

When using IV analysis for comparing hospitals, some limitations of regular IV analysis can be overcome by adjusting for a common cause.

Trial registration

We do not report the results of a health care intervention.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12874-022-01598-6.

Severe Traumatic Brain Injury in French-Speaking Pediatric Intensive Care Units: Study of Practices

Best strategies for managing severe pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) are not established, with wide variations among professional practices. The main objective of this study was to assess compliance with updated pediatric TBI management guidelines (2019). A survey was distributed among French-speaking pediatric intensive care physicians from April 1 to June 30, 2019. The survey was based on a clinical case with a total of 70 questions that cover the 15 items of the 2019 TBI guidelines. The questions evaluated the assessment and management of TBI during the acute and intensive care phases. Of 487 e-mails sent, 78 surveys were included. Guidelines were adhered to (> 60%) for 10 of 15 items in the guidelines. Strong adherence to recent guideline changes was achieved for seizure prophylaxis with levetiracetam (n = 21/33, 64%) and partial pressure of carbon dioxide threshold (n = 52, 67%). However, management of the sodium and glucose thresholds and the role of transcranial Doppler were not consistent with the guidelines. Assessment of brain tissue oxygenation (n = 12, 16%) and autoregulation (n = 35, 45%) was not a common practice. There was strong agreement among clinicians on the intracranial pressure (> 80%) and cerebral perfusion pressure (> 70%) thresholds used according to age. Overall, stated practices for the management of TBI appear to be relatively standardized among responders. Variations persist in areas with a lack of evidence and pediatric-specific recommendations.

A recurrent machine learning model predicts intracranial hypertension in neurointensive care patients

The evolution of intracranial pressure (ICP) of critically ill patients admitted to a neurointensive care unit (ICU) is difficult to predict. Besides the underlying disease and compromised intracranial space, ICP is affected by a multitude of factors, many of which are monitored on the ICU, but the complexity of the resulting patterns limits their clinical use. This paves the way for new machine learning (ML) techniques to assist clinical management of patients undergoing invasive ICP monitoring independent of the underlying disease. An institutional cohort (ICP-ICU) of patients with invasive ICP monitoring (n = 1346) was used to train recurrent ML models to predict the occurrence of ICP increases of ≥ 22mmHg over a long (> 2 hours) time period in the upcoming hours. External validation was performed on patients undergoing invasive ICP measurement in two publicly available datasets (Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC, n = 998) and eICU Collaborative Research Database (eICU, n = 1634)). Different distances (1h-24 h) between prediction time point and upcoming critical phase were evaluated, demonstrating a decrease in performance but still robust AUC-ROC with larger distances (24 h AUC-ROC: ICP-ICU 0.826 ± 0.0071, MIMIC 0.836 ± 0.0063, eICU 0.779 ± 0.0046, 1 h AUC-ROC: ICP-ICU 0.982 ± 0.0008, MIMIC 0.965 ± 0.0010, eICU 0.941 ± 0.0025). The model operates on sparse hourly data and is stable in handling variable input lengths and missingness through its nature of recurrence and internal memory. Calculation of gradient-based feature importance revealed individual underlying decisions for our Long Short Time Memory (LSTM) based model and thereby provided improved clinical interpretability. Recurrent ML models have the potential to be an effective tool for the prediction of ICP increases with high translational potential.

Neuromonitoring in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Bibliometric Analysis

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of mortality and disability among trauma-related injuries. Neuromonitoring plays an essential role in the management and prognosis of patients with severe TBI. Our bibliometric study aimed to identify the knowledge base, define the research front, and outline the social networks on neuromonitoring in severe TBI. We conducted an electronic search for articles related to neuromonitoring in severe TBI in Scopus. A descriptive analysis retrieved evidence on the most productive authors and countries, the most cited articles, the most frequently publishing journals, and the most common author's keywords. Through a three-step network extraction process, we performed a collaboration analysis among universities and countries, a cocitation analysis, and a word cooccurrence analysis. A total of 1884 records formed the basis of our bibliometric study. We recorded an increasing scientific interest in the use of neuromonitoring in severe TBI. Czosnyka, Hutchinson, Menon, Smielewski, and Stocchetti were the most productive authors. The most cited document was a review study by Maas et al. There was an extensive collaboration among universities. The most common keywords were "intracranial pressure," with an increasing interest in magnetic resonance imaging and cerebral perfusion pressure monitoring. Neuromonitoring constitutes an area of active research. The present findings indicate that intracranial pressure monitoring plays a pivotal role in the management of severe TBI. Scientific interest shifts to magnetic resonance imaging and individualized patient care on the basis of optimal cerebral perfusion pressure.

Can We Cluster ICU Treatment Strategies for Traumatic Brain Injury by Hospital Treatment Preferences?

Background

In traumatic brain injury (TBI), large between-center differences in treatment and outcome for patients managed in the intensive care unit (ICU) have been shown. The aim of this study is to explore if European neurotrauma centers can be clustered, based on their treatment preference in different domains of TBI care in the ICU.

Methods

Provider profiles of centers participating in the Collaborative European Neurotrauma Effectiveness Research in TBI study were used to assess correlations within and between the predefined domains: intracranial pressure monitoring, coagulation and transfusion, surgery, prophylactic antibiotics, and more general ICU treatment policies. Hierarchical clustering using Ward’s minimum variance method was applied to group data with the highest similarity. Heat maps were used to visualize whether hospitals could be grouped to uncover types of hospitals adhering to certain treatment strategies.

Results

Provider profiles were available from 66 centers in 20 different countries in Europe and Israel. Correlations within most of the predefined domains varied from low to high correlations (mean correlation coefficients 0.2–0.7). Correlations between domains were lower, with mean correlation coefficients of 0.2. Cluster analysis showed that policies could be grouped, but hospitals could not be grouped based on their preference.

Conclusions

Although correlations between treatment policies within domains were found, the failure to cluster hospitals indicates that a specific treatment choice within a domain is not a proxy for other treatment choices within or outside the domain. These results imply that studying the effects of specific TBI interventions on outcome can be based on between-center variation without being substantially confounded by other treatments.

Trial registration

We do not report the results of a health care intervention.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12028-021-01386-y.

Correlation of Positive End-Expiratory and Intracranial Pressure Using the Ultrasonographic-Guided Measurement of Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients

BACKGROUND

In brain injury patients, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) may potentially increase the intracranial pressure (ICP). ICP can be noninvasively assessed from the sonographic measurement of the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). Herein, we aim to evaluate the association between PEEP and ICP via measuring ONSD in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients.

METHODS

TBI patients with age ≥18 years, severe brain injury (GCS 8 or less), receiving mechanical ventilation, initial PEEP ≤4 mmHg and no history of severe cardiopulmonary disease were included in this study. Patients with intracranial hypertension (defined as ICP >20 mmHg) and already receiving PEEP >15 cm H2O at enrollment were excluded from the study. ONSD measurement was performed when hemodynamic parameters were most stable. Variables included central venous pressure, invasive blood pressure, heart rate, saturation, and ventilator parameters.

RESULTS

The ONSD and ICP did not increase significantly while PEEP increased from 0-5 cm and 5-10 cm H2O. However, ONSD and ICP significantly increased when PEEP increased from 10-15 cm H2O. There was no significant difference noted while comparing measurements of optic nerve sheath (ONS) diameter in both eyes at all PEEP values in cases as well as control patients. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) decreased with an increase in PEEP value. Highly significant decrease occurred in MAP change from PEEP 10-15 in cases (P < 0.001) and control (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The PEEP up to 10 cm H2O can be safely applied in patients with TBI. In addition, the increment of PEEP might further increase the oxygenation, at the cost of ICP accentuation.

Neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging in a rodent model of acute mild traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Identification of changesin brain microstructure following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) could be instrumental in understanding the underlying pathophysiology. The purpose of this study was to apply neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) to a rodent model of mTBI to determine whether microstructural changes could be detected immediately following injury.

METHODS

Fifteen adult male Wistar rats were scanned on a Bruker 9.4 Tesla small animal MRI using a multi-shell acquisition (30 b = 1000 s/mm² and 60 b = 2000 s/mm² ). Nine animals experienced a single closed head controlled cortical impact followed by NODDI from 1 to 4 h post injury. Region of interest analysis focused on the corpus callosum and hippocampus. A mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine statistically significant interactions in neurite density index (NDI), orientation dispersion index (ODI), fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity. Follow up repeated-measures ANOVAs were used to determine individual changes over time.

RESULTS

NDI showed a significant increase in the hippocampus and corpus callosum following injury, while ODI showed increases in the corpus callosum. No significant changes were observed in the sham control animals. No changes were found in FA, MD, AD, or RD. Histological analysis revealed increased glial fibrillary acidic protein staining relative to controls in both the hippocampus and corpus callosum, with evidence of activated astrocytes in these regions.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in NODDI metrics were detected as early as 1 h following mTBI. No changes were detected with conventional diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics, suggesting that NODDI provides greater sensitivity to microstructural changes than conventional DTI.

Adherence to Guidelines for Managing Severe Traumatic Brain Injury in Children

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) protocols vary widely among institutions, despite the existence of published guidelines. This study seeks to identify significant differences in management of pediatric TBI across several institutions. Severe pediatric TBI protocols were collected from major US pediatric hospitals through direct communication with trauma staff. Of 24 institutions identified and contacted, 10 did not respond and 5 did not have a pediatric TBI protocol. Pediatric TBI protocols were successfully collected from 9 institutions. These 9 protocols were separated into treatment tiers analogous to those in the 2019 Society of Critical Care Medicine and World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies guidelines, and the intervention variables were identified and compared across the 9 institutions. First-line therapies were similar between institutions, including seizure prophylaxis, maintenance of normoglycemia and normothermia, and avoidance of hypoxia, hyponatremia, and hypotension. However, significant variation across institutions was found regarding timing of cerebrospinal fluid drainage, hyperventilation, and neuromuscular blockade. When included in institutional protocols, most therapies are in line with the 2019 guidelines, except for diversion of cerebrospinal fluid, hyperventilation, maintenance of cerebral perfusion pressure, and use of neuromuscular blocking agents. Although these variations may represent differences in style or preference, the optimal timing of these specific treatment variations should be studied to determine the impact of each protocol on clinical outcomes.

Contemporary Review on Craniectomy and Cranioplasty; Part 1: Decompressive Craniectomy

ABSTRACT

This paper aims to review clinical benefits of decompressive craniectomy (DC) in both adult and paediatric populations; its indications and factors contributing to its postoperative success. The Glasgow Outcome Scale and the Modified Rankin Scale are the most commonly used scales to assess the long-term outcome in patients post DC. In adult traumatic brain injury patients, 2 randomized clinical trials were carried out; DECRA (Decompressive Craniectomy in Diffuse Traumatic Brain Injury) and RESCUEicp (Randomised Evaluation of Surgery with Craniectomy for Uncontrollable Elevation of inter cranial pressure) employing collectively 555 patients. Despite the differences in these trials, their initial results affirm DC can lead to reduced mortality and more favorable outcomes. In ischemic stroke adult patients, different clinical trials of HAMLET (Dutch trial of Hemicraniectomy after middle cerebral artery infarction with life-threatening Edema), DESTINY (German trial of Decompressive Surgery for the treatment of Malignant Infarct of the Middle Cerebral Artery), and DECIMAL (French trial of Decompressive Craniectomy in Malignant Middle Cerebral Artery Infarcts) suggested that DC improves survival compared with best medical management, but with an increased proportion of treated individuals surviving with moderate or severe disability. With regard to the size of bone to be removed, the larger the defect the better the results with a minimum diameter of 11 to 12 cm of bone flap. Cranioplasty timing varies and ranges from 6 weeks to more than 12 months post DC, depending on completion of medical treatment, clinical recovery, resolution of any infection, and an evaluation of soft tissues at the defect site.

Factors associated with receipt of intracranial pressure monitoring in older adults with traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

The Brain Trauma Foundation (BTF) Guidelines for the Management of Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) include intracranial pressure monitoring (ICPM), yet very little is known about ICPM in older adults. Our objectives were to characterize the utilization of ICPM in older adults and identify factors associated with ICPM in those who met the BTF guidelines.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Geriatric TBI Study, a registry study conducted among individuals with isolated, CT-confirmed TBI across 45 trauma centers. The analysis was restricted to those aged ≥60. Independent factors associated with ICPM for those who did and did not meet the BTF guidelines were identified using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Our sample was composed of 2303 patients, of whom 66 (2.9%) underwent ICPM. Relative to Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 13 to 15, GCS score of 9 to 12 (OR 10.2; 95% CI 4.3 to 24.4) and GCS score of <9 (OR 15.0; 95% CI 7.2 to 31.1), intraventricular hemorrhage (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.2 to 4.83), skull fractures (OR 3.6; 95% CI 2.0 to 6.6), CT worsening (OR 3.3; 95% CI 1.8 to 5.9), and neurosurgical interventions (OR 3.8; 95% CI 2.1 to 7.0) were significantly associated with ICPM. Restricting to those who met the BTF guidelines, only 43 of 240 (18%) underwent ICPM. Factors independently associated with ICPM included intraparenchymal hemorrhage (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.0 to 4.7), skull fractures (OR 3.9; 95% CI 1.9 to 8.2), and neurosurgical interventions (OR 3.5; 95% CI 1.7 to 7.2).

DISCUSSION

Worsening GCS, intraparenchymal/intraventricular hemorrhage, and skull fractures were associated with ICPM among older adults with TBI, yet utilization of ICPM remains low, especially among those meeting the BTF guidelines, and potential benefits remain unclear. This study highlights the need for better understanding of factors that influence compliance with BTF guidelines and the risks versus benefits of ICPM in this population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic and epidemiological, level III.

Association Between Intoxication and Urgent Neurosurgical Procedures in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Results From the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program

BACKGROUND

The probability of undergoing surgery after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) varies significantly across studies and centers. However, causes of this variability are poorly understood. We hypothesized that intoxication may impact the probability of receiving an urgent neurosurgical procedure among patients with severe TBI.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of adult patients admitted to a Level I or II trauma center in the United States or Canada with an isolated severe TBI (2012-2016). Data were derived from the Trauma Quality Improvement Program dataset. An urgent neurosurgical procedure was defined as a procedure that occurred within 24 hours of admission. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to examine the independent effect of intoxication on a patient's likelihood of undergoing an urgent procedure, as well as the timing of the procedure.

RESULTS

Of the 33,646 patients with an isolated severe TBI, 11,313 (33.6%) were intoxicated. An urgent neurosurgical procedure was performed in 8,255 (24.5%) cases. Overall, there was no difference in the probability of undergoing an urgent procedure between patients who were and were not intoxicated (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.94-1.06). While intoxication status had no impact on the probability of surgery among patients with the most severe TBI (head AIS 5: OR 1.06 [95% CI 0.98-1.15]), intoxicated patients on the lower spectrum of injury had lower odds of undergoing an urgent procedure (AIS 3: OR 0.80 [95% CI 0.66-0.97]). Among patients who underwent an urgent procedure, intoxication had no impact on timing.

CONCLUSION

Intoxication status was not associated with differences in the probability of undergoing an urgent neurosurgical procedure among all patients with a severe TBI. However, in patients with less severe TBI, intoxication status was associated with decreased likelihood of receiving an urgent intervention. This finding underscores the challenge in the management of intoxicated patients with TBI.

Use and impact of high intensity treatments in patients with traumatic brain injury across Europe: a CENTER-TBI analysis

PURPOSE

To study variation in, and clinical impact of high Therapy Intensity Level (TIL) treatments for elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) across European Intensive Care Units (ICUs).

METHODS

We studied high TIL treatments (metabolic suppression, hypothermia (< 35 °C), intensive hyperventilation (PaCO2 < 4 kPa), and secondary decompressive craniectomy) in patients receiving ICP monitoring in the ICU stratum of the CENTER-TBI study. A random effect logistic regression model was used to determine between-centre variation in their use. A propensity score-matched model was used to study the impact on outcome (6-months Glasgow Outcome Score-extended (GOSE)), whilst adjusting for case-mix severity, signs of brain herniation on imaging, and ICP.

RESULTS

313 of 758 patients from 52 European centres (41%) received at least one high TIL treatment with significant variation between centres (median odds ratio = 2.26). Patients often transiently received high TIL therapies without escalation from lower tier treatments. 38% of patients with high TIL treatment had favourable outcomes (GOSE ≥ 5). The use of high TIL treatment was not significantly associated with worse outcome (285 matched pairs, OR 1.4, 95% CI [1.0-2.0]). However, a sensitivity analysis excluding high TIL treatments at day 1 or use of metabolic suppression at any day did reveal a statistically significant association with worse outcome.

CONCLUSION

Substantial between-centre variation in use of high TIL treatments for TBI was found and treatment escalation to higher TIL treatments were often not preceded by more conventional lower TIL treatments. The significant association between high TIL treatments after day 1 and worse outcomes may reflect aggressive use or unmeasured confounders or inappropriate escalation strategies.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Substantial variation was found in the use of highly intensive ICP-lowering treatments across European ICUs and a stepwise escalation strategy from lower to higher intensity level therapy is often lacking. Further research is necessary to study the impact of high therapy intensity treatments.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The core study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02210221, registered 08/06/2014, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02210221?id=NCT02210221&draw=1&rank=1 and with Resource Identification Portal (RRID: SCR_015582).

Evolution Over Time of Ventilatory Management and Outcome of Patients With Neurologic Disease

OBJECTIVES

To describe the changes in ventilator management over time in patients with neurologic disease at ICU admission and to estimate factors associated with 28-day hospital mortality.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of three prospective, observational, multicenter studies.

SETTING

Cohort studies conducted in 2004, 2010, and 2016.

PATIENTS

Adult patients who received mechanical ventilation for more than 12 hours.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Among the 20,929 patients enrolled, we included 4,152 (20%) mechanically ventilated patients due to different neurologic diseases. Hemorrhagic stroke and brain trauma were the most common pathologies associated with the need for mechanical ventilation. Although volume-cycled ventilation remained the preferred ventilation mode, there was a significant (p < 0.001) increment in the use of pressure support ventilation. The proportion of patients receiving a protective lung ventilation strategy was increased over time: 47% in 2004, 63% in 2010, and 65% in 2016 (p < 0.001), as well as the duration of protective ventilation strategies: 406 days per 1,000 mechanical ventilation days in 2004, 523 days per 1,000 mechanical ventilation days in 2010, and 585 days per 1,000 mechanical ventilation days in 2016 (p < 0.001). There were no differences in the length of stay in the ICU, mortality in the ICU, and mortality in hospital from 2004 to 2016. Independent risk factors for 28-day mortality were age greater than 75 years, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II greater than 50, the occurrence of organ dysfunction within first 48 hours after brain injury, and specific neurologic diseases such as hemorrhagic stroke, ischemic stroke, and brain trauma.

CONCLUSIONS

More lung-protective ventilatory strategies have been implemented over years in neurologic patients with no effect on pulmonary complications or on survival. We found several prognostic factors on mortality such as advanced age, the severity of the disease, organ dysfunctions, and the etiology of neurologic disease.

Epidemiological and Clinico-radiological Evaluation of Head Injury in Pediatric Population

BACKGROUND

Head injury in infancy and childhood has been documented as the single most common cause of death. In India, children aged <15 years constitute 35% of the total population and contribute to 20-30% of all head injuries. In this study, we attempted to analyze the epidemiological factors, management, and outcome of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The objective of this study were to find the causes of head injury in children and its pattern of distribution in this population and to analyze the efforts required to prevent the injury and management focusing on limiting the progression of primary brain injury and minimizing secondary brain insult.

RESULTS

A total of 2714 patients with head injury were admitted at our hospital during the study period and, out of them, 508 (18.17%) were pediatric patients with age less than 18 years. Of the 508 patients, only 497 patients were included in this study. In the present study, 357 (71.83%) were males and 140 (28.16%) were females. In total, 351 cases were managed conservatively whereas surgical intervention was conducted in 146 cases (P < 0.001). In this study, the most common mode of injury was a road traffic accident (RTA) (46.88%; n=233), followed by fall from height (34.8%; n=173) (P < 0.001). It was also seen that epidural hematoma and fracture hematoma were the most common computed tomography findings in pediatric patients with head injury followed by parenchymal contusion or contusion with or without fracture followed by diffuse axonal injury. A total of 344 cases out of 497 cases were discharged with Glasgow outcome score (GOS)-5 whereas nine cases remained in a persistent vegetative state (GOS-2).

CONCLUSION

Early intervention aimed at the primary lesion in TBI in children generally carries a good outcome, and limits as much as possible the ongoing biomechanical, physiological, and pathological sequelae post-TBI. In teenagers, the importance of proper self-care along with adequate safety gears while doing any TBI-prone activity should be emphasized.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury in China: a prospective, multicentre, longitudinal, observational study

BACKGROUND

Large-scale studies are required to better characterise traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to identify the most effective treatment approaches for TBI. However, evidence is scarce and mostly originates from high-income countries. We aimed to describe the existing care for patients with TBI and the outcomes in China.

METHODS

The Collaborative European NeuroTrauma Effectiveness Research in TBI (CENTER-TBI) China registry is a prospective, multicentre, longitudinal, observational study done in 56 neurosurgical centres across China. We collected data of patients who were admitted to hospital with a clinical diagnosis of TBI and an indication for CT. Patients who were discharged directly from the emergency room were excluded. The primary endpoint was survival on discharge. Prognostic analyses were applied to identify predictors of mortality. Variations in mortality were compared between centres and provinces within China. Mortality was compared with expected mortality, estimated using the CRASH basic model. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02210221.

FINDINGS

From Dec 22, 2014, to Aug 1, 2017, 13 627 patients with TBI from 56 centres were enrolled in the registry. Data from 13 138 patients from 52 hospitals in 22 provinces of China were analysed. Most patients were male (9782 [74%]), with a median age of 48 years (IQR 33-61). The median Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was 13 (IQR 9-15), and the leading cause of injury was road-traffic incident (6548 [50%]). Overall, 637 (5%) patients died, including 552 (20%) patients with severe TBI. Age, GCS score, injury severity score, pupillary light reflex, CT findings (compressed basal cistern and midline shift ≥5 mm), presence of hypoxia, systemic hypotension, altitude higher than >500 m, and GDP per capita were significantly associated with survival in all patients with TBI. Variation in mortality existed between centres and regions. The expected 14-day mortality was 1116 (13%), but 544 (7%) deaths within 14 days were observed (observed to expected ratio 0·49 [95% CI 0·45-0·53]).

INTERPRETATION

The results show differences in mortality between centres and regions across China, which indicates potential for identifying best practices through comparative effectiveness research. The risk factors identified in prognostic analyses might contribute to developing benchmarks for assessing quality of care.

FUNDING

None.

Improving Compliance With Protocol-Driven Care in Adult Traumatic Brain Injury Patients by Implementing an Electronic Clinical Compliance Monitoring Tool

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a major cause of death and disability each year in the United States. Implementation of preestablished evidence-based guidelines has been associated with a decrease in overall TBI mortality and disability.

OBJECTIVES

An electronic clinical monitoring tool was developed for monitoring compliance with evidence-based TBI treatment protocols to improve the overall care and outcomes in this patient population.

METHODS

This project was designed as a process improvement project. For the preimplementation cohort of TBI patients, aggregate compliance data (by patient) were obtained from the Brain Trauma Foundation Trial patient registry maintained at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center for the time between 2011 and 2012. The postimplementation cohort includes all patients older than 18 years who have sustained a TBI requiring clinical monitoring devices.

RESULTS

There was a statistical significance between groups; the TBI-2017 group demonstrated better compliance with anticonvulsant use and cerebral perfusion pressure maintenance. In addition, overall compliance was better in the TBI-2017 cohort compared with the TBI-2012 cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Traumatic brain injury-specific education and frequent assessments improved compliance between TBI-2012 and TBI-2017, resulting in a higher percentage in overall survivors in the latter group.

Decreased Intracranial Pressure Monitor Use at Level II Trauma Centers is Associated with Increased Mortality

Previous investigations suggest outcome differences at Level I and Level II trauma centers. We examined use of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitors at Level I and Level II trauma centers after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and its effect on mortality. The 2007 to 2008 National Trauma Databank was reviewed for patients with an indication for ICP monitoring based on Brain Trauma Foundation (BTF) guidelines. Demographic and clinical outcomes at Level I and Level II centers were compared by regression modeling. Overall, 15,921 patients met inclusion criteria; 11,017 were admitted to a Level I and 4,904 to a Level II trauma center. Patients with TBI admitted to a Level II trauma center had a lower rate of Injury Severity Score greater than 16 (80 vs 82%, P < 0.01) and lower frequency of head Abbreviated Injury Score greater than 3 (80 vs 82%, P < 0.01). After regression modeling, patients with TBI admitted to a Level II trauma center were 31 per cent less likely to receive an ICP monitor (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.69; P < 0.01) and had a significantly higher mortality (AOR, 1.12; P < 0.01). Admission to a Level II trauma center after severe TBI is associated with a decreased use of ICP monitoring in patients who meet BTF criteria as well as an increased mortality. These differences should be validated prospectively to narrow these discrepancies in care and outcomes between Level I and Level II centers.

Quality indicators for patients with traumatic brain injury in European intensive care units: a CENTER-TBI study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to validate a previously published consensus-based quality indicator set for the management of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) at intensive care units (ICUs) in Europe and to study its potential for quality measurement and improvement.

METHODS

Our analysis was based on 2006 adult patients admitted to 54 ICUs between 2014 and 2018, enrolled in the CENTER-TBI study. Indicator scores were calculated as percentage adherence for structure and process indicators and as event rates or median scores for outcome indicators. Feasibility was quantified by the completeness of the variables. Discriminability was determined by the between-centre variation, estimated with a random effect regression model adjusted for case-mix severity and quantified by the median odds ratio (MOR). Statistical uncertainty of outcome indicators was determined by the median number of events per centre, using a cut-off of 10.

RESULTS

A total of 26/42 indicators could be calculated from the CENTER-TBI database. Most quality indicators proved feasible to obtain with more than 70% completeness. Sub-optimal adherence was found for most quality indicators, ranging from 26 to 93% and 20 to 99% for structure and process indicators. Significant (p < 0.001) between-centre variation was found in seven process and five outcome indicators with MORs ranging from 1.51 to 4.14. Statistical uncertainty of outcome indicators was generally high; five out of seven had less than 10 events per centre.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, nine structures, five processes, but none of the outcome indicators showed potential for quality improvement purposes for TBI patients in the ICU. Future research should focus on implementation efforts and continuous reevaluation of quality indicators.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The core study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02210221, registered on August 06, 2014, with Resource Identification Portal (RRID: SCR_015582).

Changing care pathways and between-center practice variations in intensive care for traumatic brain injury across Europe: a CENTER-TBI analysis

PURPOSE

To describe ICU stay, selected management aspects, and outcome of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Europe, and to quantify variation across centers.

METHODS

This is a prospective observational multicenter study conducted across 18 countries in Europe and Israel. Admission characteristics, clinical data, and outcome were described at patient- and center levels. Between-center variation in the total ICU population was quantified with the median odds ratio (MOR), with correction for case-mix and random variation between centers.

RESULTS

A total of 2138 patients were admitted to the ICU, with median age of 49 years; 36% of which were mild TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale; GCS 13-15). Within, 72 h 636 (30%) were discharged and 128 (6%) died. Early deaths and long-stay patients (> 72 h) had more severe injuries based on the GCS and neuroimaging characteristics, compared with short-stay patients. Long-stay patients received more monitoring and were treated at higher intensity, and experienced worse 6-month outcome compared to short-stay patients. Between-center variations were prominent in the proportion of short-stay patients (MOR = 2.3, p < 0.001), use of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring (MOR = 2.5, p < 0.001) and aggressive treatments (MOR = 2.9, p < 0.001); and smaller in 6-month outcome (MOR = 1.2, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Half of contemporary TBI patients at the ICU have mild to moderate head injury. Substantial between-center variations exist in ICU stay and treatment policies, and less so in outcome. It remains unclear whether admission of short-stay patients represents appropriate prudence or inappropriate use of clinical resources.

Evaluation of a New Multiparameter Brain Probe for Simultaneous Measurement of Brain Tissue Oxygenation, Cerebral Blood Flow, Intracranial Pressure, and Brain Temperature in a Porcine Model

BACKGROUND

A novel multiparameter brain sensor (MPBS) allows the simultaneous measurement of brain tissue oxygenation (ptiO₂), cerebral blood flow (CBF), intracranial pressure (ICP), and brain temperature with a single catheter. This laboratory investigation evaluates the MPBS in an animal model in relation to established reference probes.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 17 juvenile male pigs. Four MPBS and four reference probes were implanted per pig and compared simultaneously. The measured parameters were challenged by standardized provocations such as hyperoxia, dobutamine, and norepinephrine application, hypercapnia and hypoxia in combination with and without a controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury. Mean values over 2 min were collected for predefined time points and were analyzed using Bland-Altman plots.

RESULTS

The protocol was successfully conducted in 15 pigs of which seven received CCI. ICP and ptiO₂ were significantly influenced by the provocations. Subtraction of MPBS from reference values revealed a mean difference (limits of agreement) of 3.7 (- 20.5 to 27.9) mm Hg, - 2.9 (- 7.9 to 2.1) mm Hg, and 5.1 (- 134.7 to 145.0) % for ptiO₂, ICP, and relative CBF, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The MPBS is a promising measurement tool for multiparameter neuromonitoring. The conducted study demonstrates the in vivo functionality of the probe. Comparison with standard probes revealed a deviation which is mostly analogous to other multiparameter devices. However, further evaluation of the device is necessary before it can reliably be used for clinical decision making.

Impact of ICU Structure and Processes of Care on Outcomes After Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Multicenter Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

It is uncertain whether dedicated neurocritical care units are associated with improved outcomes for critically ill neurologically injured patients in the era of collaborative protocol-driven care. We examined the association between dedicated neurocritical care units and mortality and the effects of standardized management protocols for severe traumatic brain injury.

DESIGN

We surveyed trauma medical directors from centers participating in the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program to obtain information about ICU structure and processes of care. Survey data were then linked to the Trauma Quality Improvement Program registry, and random-intercept hierarchical multivariable modeling was used to evaluate the association between dedicated neurocritical care units, the presence of standardized management protocols and mortality.

SETTING

Trauma centers in North America participating in Trauma Quality Improvement Program.

PATIENTS

Data were analyzed from 9,773 adult patients with isolated severe traumatic brain injury admitted to 134 Trauma Quality Improvement Program centers between 2011 and 2013.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Only 50 ICUs (37%) were dedicated neurocritical care units, whereas 84 (63%) were general ICUs. Rates of standardized management protocols were similar comparing dedicated neurocritical care units and general ICUs. Among severe TBI patients admitted to trauma centers enrolled in Trauma Quality Improvement Program, care in a dedicated neurocritical care unit did not improve risk-adjusted in-hospital survival (odds ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.80-1.19; p = 0.79). However, the presence of a standardized management protocol for these patients was associated with lower risk-adjusted in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.63-0.93; p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with dedicated neurocritical care models, standardized management protocols for severe traumatic brain injured patients are process-targeted intervention strategies that may improve clinical outcomes.

The Treatment Intensity of Anticoagulant Therapy for Patients With Sepsis-Induced Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation and Outcomes: A Multicenter Cohort Study

We examined the institutional variations in anticoagulation therapy for sepsis-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and their effects on patient outcomes. This post hoc analysis of a cohort study included 3195 patients with severe sepsis across 42 intensive care units. To evaluate differences in the intensity of anticoagulation therapy, the proportion of patients receiving anticoagulation therapy and the total number of patients with sepsis-induced DIC were compared. Predicted in-hospital mortality for each patient was calculated using logistic regression analysis. To evaluate survival outcomes, the actual/mean predicted in-hospital mortality ratio in each institution was calculated. Thirty-eight institutions with 2897 patients were included. Twenty-five institutions treated 60% to 100% (high-intensity institutions), while the rest treated 0% to 50% (low-intensity institutions) of patients with sepsis-induced DIC having anticoagulant therapy. Every 10-unit increase in the intensity of anticoagulant therapy was associated with lower in-hospital mortality (odds ratio: 0.904). A higher number of high-intensity institutions (compared to low-intensity institutions) had lower in-hospital mortality and fewer bleeding events than predicted. In conclusion, institutional variations existed in the use of anticoagulation therapy in patients with sepsis-induced DIC. High-intensity anticoagulation therapy was associated with better outcomes.

Development of a quality indicator set to measure and improve quality of ICU care for patients with traumatic brain injury

Background

We aimed to develop a set of quality indicators for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in intensive care units (ICUs) across Europe and to explore barriers and facilitators for implementation of these quality indicators.

Methods

A preliminary list of 66 quality indicators was developed, based on current guidelines, existing practice variation, and clinical expertise in TBI management at the ICU. Eight TBI experts of the Advisory Committee preselected the quality indicators during a first Delphi round. A larger Europe-wide expert panel was recruited for the next two Delphi rounds. Quality indicator definitions were evaluated on four criteria: validity (better performance on the indicator reflects better processes of care and leads to better patient outcome), feasibility (data are available or easy to obtain), discriminability (variability in clinical practice), and actionability (professionals can act based on the indicator). Experts scored indicators on a 5-point Likert scale delivered by an electronic survey tool.

Results

The expert panel consisted of 50 experts from 18 countries across Europe, mostly intensivists (N = 24, 48%) and neurosurgeons (N = 7, 14%). Experts agreed on a final set of 42 indicators to assess quality of ICU care: 17 structure indicators, 16 process indicators, and 9 outcome indicators. Experts are motivated to implement this finally proposed set (N = 49, 98%) and indicated routine measurement in registries (N = 41, 82%), benchmarking (N = 42, 84%), and quality improvement programs (N = 41, 82%) as future steps. Administrative burden was indicated as the most important barrier for implementation of the indicator set (N = 48, 98%).

Conclusions

This Delphi consensus study gives insight in which quality indicators have the potential to improve quality of TBI care at European ICUs. The proposed quality indicator set is recommended to be used across Europe for registry purposes to gain insight in current ICU practices and outcomes of patients with TBI. This indicator set may become an important tool to support benchmarking and quality improvement programs for patients with TBI in the future.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13054-019-2377-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Validation of a monitoring matrix for patients with brain injuries

BACKGROUND

Brain injury is a leading cause of death and disabilities worldwide. The severity of brain damage is of course related to the primary injury. Secondary brain insults are the most powerful determinants of outcome from severe head injury. To improve the outcome, it needs to be well detected to be controlled. The detection of these factors can be difficult among numerous data. The objective of this work was to validate a monitoring matrix to help this screening. We hypothesise that a monitoring matrix will improve the detection rate of factors linked to secondary brain injury (SBI).

METHOD

We conducted a single-center prospective observational simulation study. We designed a monitoring matrix compiling all the brain insults, intracranial data (ICP, CCP, PtiO2) and systemic data (PaCO2, PaO2, temperature, natremia, hemoglobin). Each caregiver had to analyze the same simulated data with a standard monitoring sheet and with the monitoring matrix. We then compared the detection rate of SBI factors.

RESULTS

25 caregivers analyzed a total of 265 matrixes. The monitoring matrix had a sensitivity of 96.5% and a specificity of 99.9% versus 69.9% and 67.8% respectively for the standard monitoring sheet. The detection rate was significantly higher with the monitoring matrix (96.5%) versus the standard monitoring sheet (69.9%), regardless of the caregiver's status. It is also improved among nurses, regardless of their seniority.

CONCLUSION

The use of this monitoring matrix is simple and inexpensive. The monitoring matrix improves significantly the detection rate of factors linked to secondary brain injury. It also provides homogenization of the detection rate among the physicians and nurses regardless of their experience. Nurses becoming as qualified as physicians, allows earlier detection and therefore a faster treatment.

Twenty-Five Years of Intracranial Pressure Monitoring After Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Retrospective, Single-Center Analysis

BACKGROUND

Intracranial pressure (ICP) is a clinically important variable after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and has been monitored, along with clinical outcome, for over 25 yr in Addenbrooke's hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom. This time period has also seen changes in management strategies with the implementation of protocolled specialist neurocritical care, expansion of neuromonitoring techniques, and adjustments of clinical treatment targets.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the changes in intracranial monitoring variables over the past 25 yr.

METHODS

Data from 1146 TBI patients requiring ICP monitoring were analyzed. Monitored variables included ICP, cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), and the cerebral pressure reactivity index (PRx). Data were stratified into 5-yr epochs spanning the 25 yr from 1992 to 2017.

RESULTS

CPP increased sharply with specialist neurocritical care management (P &lt; 0.0001) (introduction of a specific TBI management algorithm) before stabilizing from 2000 onwards. ICP decreased significantly over the 25 yr of monitoring from an average of 19 to 12 mmHg (P &lt; 0.0001) but PRx remained unchanged. The mean number of ICP plateau waves and the number of patients developing refractory intracranial hypertension both decreased significantly. Mortality did not significantly change in the cohort (22%).

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate the evolving trends in neurophysiological monitoring over the past 25 yr from a single, academic neurocritical care unit. ICP and CPP were responsive to the introduction of an ICP/CPP protocol while PRx has remained unchanged.

Management of raised intracranial pressure in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: time for a consensus?

Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) is a well-recognized phenomenon in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) that has been demonstrated to lead to poor outcomes. Despite significant advances in clinical research into aSAH, there are no consensus guidelines devoted specifically to the management of elevated ICP in the setting of aSAH. To treat high ICP in aSAH, most centers extrapolate their treatment algorithms from studies and published guidelines for traumatic brain injury. Herein, the authors review the current management strategies for treating raised ICP within the aSAH population, emphasize key differences from the traumatic brain injury population, and highlight potential directions for future research in this controversial topic.

Adjusting for confounding by indication in observational studies: a case study in traumatic brain injury

INTRODUCTION

Observational studies of interventions are at risk for confounding by indication. The objective of the current study was to define the circumstances for the validity of methods to adjust for confounding by indication in observational studies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed post hoc analyses of data prospectively collected from three European and North American traumatic brain injury studies including 1,725 patients. The effects of three interventions (intracranial pressure [ICP] monitoring, intracranial operation and primary referral) were estimated in a proportional odds regression model with the Glasgow Outcome Scale as ordinal outcome variable. Three analytical methods were compared: classical covariate adjustment, propensity score matching and instrumental variable (IV) analysis in which the percentage exposed to an intervention in each hospital was added as an independent variable, together with a random intercept for each hospital. In addition, a simulation study was performed in which the effect of a hypothetical beneficial intervention (OR 1.65) was simulated for scenarios with and without unmeasured confounders.

RESULTS

For all three interventions, covariate adjustment and propensity score matching resulted in negative estimates of the treatment effect (OR ranging from 0.80 to 0.92), whereas the IV approach indicated that both ICP monitoring and intracranial operation might be beneficial (OR per 10% change 1.17, 95% CI 1.01-1.42 and 1.42, 95% CI 0.95-1.97). In our simulation study, we found that covariate adjustment and propensity score matching resulted in an invalid estimate of the treatment effect in case of unmeasured confounders (OR ranging from 0.90 to 1.03). The IV approach provided an estimate in the similar direction as the simulated effect (OR per 10% change 1.04-1.05) but was statistically inefficient.

CONCLUSION

The effect estimation of interventions in observational studies strongly depends on the analytical method used. When unobserved confounding and practice variation are expected in observational multicenter studies, IV analysis should be considered.

Brain Trauma Foundation Guideline Compliance: Results of a Multidisciplinary, International Survey

BACKGROUND

Brain Trauma Foundation (BTF) guidelines reflect evidence-based best practices in management of traumatic brain injury. The aim of this study was to examine self-reported physician compliance and predictors of compliance related to BTF guidelines.

METHODS

We conducted an international, multidisciplinary survey examining self-reported adherence to BTF guidelines and multiple factors potentially affecting adherence. We also surveyed intracranial pressure monitoring practices.

RESULTS

Of 154 physician respondents, 15.9% reported their institutions "always" follow BTF guidelines and 72.2% reported that they follow them "most of the time." Personal volume of traumatic brain injury cases and years in practice were not significantly related to adherence. Reported adherence varied significantly in association with respondent's institutional trauma level (P = 0.0010): 17.3% of practitioners at level I, 13.0% at level II, and 0% at level III trauma centers reported "always" following guidelines. Reported adherence to guidelines also varied significantly in association with provider specialty (P = 0.015) and institutional volume of severe traumatic brain injury cases (P = 0.008). Regarding intracranial pressure monitoring practices, 52% of respondents used external ventricular drains, 21% used intraparenchymal monitors, and 27% had no preference (P < 0.001). Of respondents not routinely using external ventricular drains, 36% claimed to "always" follow guidelines. There was no apparent association between type of intracranial pressure monitoring used and reported guideline adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

Few respondents reported their institutions "always" follow BTF guidelines. General surgeons and providers at high-volume level I trauma centers were more likely to comply with guidelines. Differences in survey responses based on provider and institutional characteristics may help target educational efforts.

Adherence to Brain Trauma Foundation Guidelines for Management of Traumatic Brain Injury Patients and Its Effect on Outcomes: Systematic Review

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) management based on Brain Trauma Foundation (BTF) guidelines is widely accepted and thought to improve outcome. The objectives of this study are to provide an overview of adherence to BTF guidelines and to explore which factors influence adherence. We conducted a search of relevant electronic bibliographic databases. Twenty articles met inclusion/exclusion criteria out of 666 articles screened. All were cohort studies. Wide variation in adherence to BTF guidelines was observed with a median of 66.2% (range 0-100%). The lowest median adherence was observed with surgical management (14%), whereas the highest was observed with oxygenation (100%), steroid (97.8%), and blood pressure recommendation (92.3%). Variability was primarily explained by the variation in the strength of evidence of each recommendation. Treating patients with higher severity of injury as well as treatment in a Level I trauma center positively influenced adherence. Overall, adherence to BTF guidelines varies. Further research is required to strengthen the current evidence and to identify factors related to adherence to guidelines from a professional prospective.

Variation in general supportive and preventive intensive care management of traumatic brain injury: a survey in 66 neurotrauma centers participating in the Collaborative European NeuroTrauma Effectiveness Research in Traumatic Brain Injury (CENTER-TBI) study

Background

General supportive and preventive measures in the intensive care management of traumatic brain injury (TBI) aim to prevent or limit secondary brain injury and optimize recovery. The aim of this survey was to assess and quantify variation in perceptions on intensive care unit (ICU) management of patients with TBI in European neurotrauma centers.

Methods

We performed a survey as part of the Collaborative European NeuroTrauma Effectiveness Research in Traumatic Brain Injury (CENTER-TBI) study. We analyzed 23 questions focused on: 1) circulatory and respiratory management; 2) fever control; 3) use of corticosteroids; 4) nutrition and glucose management; and 5) seizure prophylaxis and treatment.

Results

The survey was completed predominantly by intensivists (n = 33, 50%) and neurosurgeons (n = 23, 35%) from 66 centers (97% response rate).

The most common cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) target was > 60 mmHg (n = 39, 60%) and/or an individualized target (n = 25, 38%). To support CPP, crystalloid fluid loading (n = 60, 91%) was generally preferred over albumin (n = 15, 23%), and vasopressors (n = 63, 96%) over inotropes (n = 29, 44%). The most commonly reported target of partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (PaCO₂) was 36–40 mmHg (4.8–5.3 kPa) in case of controlled intracranial pressure (ICP) < 20 mmHg (n = 45, 69%) and PaCO₂ target of 30–35 mmHg (4–4.7 kPa) in case of raised ICP (n = 40, 62%). Almost all respondents indicated to generally treat fever (n = 65, 98%) with paracetamol (n = 61, 92%) and/or external cooling (n = 49, 74%). Conventional glucose management (n = 43, 66%) was preferred over tight glycemic control (n = 18, 28%). More than half of the respondents indicated to aim for full caloric replacement within 7 days (n = 43, 66%) using enteral nutrition (n = 60, 92%). Indications for and duration of seizure prophylaxis varied, and levetiracetam was mostly reported as the agent of choice for both seizure prophylaxis (n = 32, 49%) and treatment (n = 40, 61%).

Conclusions

Practice preferences vary substantially regarding general supportive and preventive measures in TBI patients at ICUs of European neurotrauma centers. These results provide an opportunity for future comparative effectiveness research, since a more evidence-based uniformity in good practices in general ICU management could have a major impact on TBI outcome.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13054-018-2000-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Is Mechanical Ventilation Mandatory for the Management of Severe Head Injury? Outcome in 53 Medically Managed Severe Head Injury Patients, Without Ventilatory Support: A Prospective Study

Background:

Severe head injury (SHI) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity across the world. The current paradigm of management of SHI involves admission in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), mechanical ventilation (MV), and intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring. Such resources are expensive and often unavailable in the developing world.

Objective:

MV or ICP monitoring was unavailable for our patients due to the scarcity of resources. Hence, other alternatives were considered to prevent secondary brain injury due to hypoxia. This study assessed the outcome after SHI when managed with an early tracheostomy (ET).

Methods:

This prospective observational study over 13 months included all medically managed SHI patients without MV or ICP monitoring. The Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) was assessed at discharge and compared with published historical data reported after treatment in an ICU environment.

Results:

Our study included 53 unoperated patients with SHI among 1862 patients with traumatic brain injury. Overall mortality was 24.5% (13/53) and compared favorably with reported mortality of 25%–40% reported from centers using intensive management. At discharge, the favorable outcome with a GOS of 4 or 5 was seen in 39.6% (21/53).

Conclusion:

With ET, the results of management of SHI in our patients were comparable to results reported after MV in an ICU environment. Hence, ET is a cost-effective alternative when resources are scarce. MV should be used if hypoxia persists after tracheostomy. Although MV effectively prevents hypoxia, it has complications. We conclude that although MV was unavailable for our patients, they did not have the complications associated with it.

Effect of Positive End-Expiratory Pressure on Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter in Pediatric Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury

Background:

The peak incidence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been reported in children and young adults. Intracranial pressure (ICP) as an important component can be measured with invasive technique, whereas noninvasive measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) is increasingly becoming popular. Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) has been found to affect ICP. We aimed to compare the effect of different values of PEEP on ONSD and to obtain the correlation with ICP measurement.

Setting and Design:

Neurointensive Care Unit, Trauma Center, AIIMS, New Delhi.

Materials and Methods:

Pediatric patients with TBI, of either gender, between 1 and 18 years of age in whom ICP was measured using intraparenchymal Codman catheter admitted in neurointensive care unit were enrolled. For this crossover study, the sequence of PEEP (0 or 3 or 5 cm H₂O) was randomized and ONSD was measured. The mean of three ONSD values was taken as final value.

Statistical Method:

The ONSD, ICP, peak airway pressure, and hemodynamic parameters at various stages were compared using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction. A P value of <0.05 was considered to be significant.

Results:

Ten patients (seven males, three females) participated in the study. There was no significant increase in ONSD values when PEEP was increased from 0 to 3 cm H₂O. However, increase in PEEP values from 3 to 5 cm H₂O showed significantly increased ONSD values.

Conclusion:

PEEP up to 3 cm H₂O can be safely applied in pediatric patients following TBI. Further increment of PEEP might accentuate the ICP values.

Management of severe traumatic brain injury (first 24hours)

The latest French Guidelines for the management in the first 24hours of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) were published in 1998. Due to recent changes (intracerebral monitoring, cerebral perfusion pressure management, treatment of raised intracranial pressure), an update was required. Our objective has been to specify the significant developments since 1998. These guidelines were conducted by a group of experts for the French Society of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine (Société francaise d'anesthésie et de réanimation [SFAR]) in partnership with the Association de neuro-anesthésie-réanimation de langue française (ANARLF), The French Society of Emergency Medicine (Société française de médecine d'urgence (SFMU), the Société française de neurochirurgie (SFN), the Groupe francophone de réanimation et d'urgences pédiatriques (GFRUP) and the Association des anesthésistes-réanimateurs pédiatriques d'expression française (ADARPEF). The method used to elaborate these guidelines was the Grade^® method. After two Delphi rounds, 32 recommendations were formally developed by the experts focusing on the evaluation the initial severity of traumatic brain injury, the modalities of prehospital management, imaging strategies, indications for neurosurgical interventions, sedation and analgesia, indications and modalities of cerebral monitoring, medical management of raised intracranial pressure, management of multiple trauma with severe traumatic brain injury, detection and prevention of post-traumatic epilepsia, biological homeostasis (osmolarity, glycaemia, adrenal axis) and paediatric specificities.