Identification of Patients at Risk of Undesired Obstruction in External Ventricular Drain Based on Intraventricular Hemorrhage Extent: A Single-Center Prospective Observational Study

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates acute obstructive hydrocephalus, a condition often arising from intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) that requires the use of an external ventricular drain (EVD) to relieve pressure in the brain. The study aims to develop a score based on the extent of IVH to identify patients at high risk of undesired EVD obstruction, which can worsen hydrocephalus and complicate treatment. The relationship between IVH severity and EVD obstruction remains unclear, making this study important for improving patient monitoring. Participants are patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) who have had an EVD inserted within the past 12 hours and have recent brain imaging available. The study is observational and does not involve experimental treatments. Researchers will monitor patients from the time of EVD insertion until removal, for up to 100 days, to assess the predictive value of IVH severity on EVD obstruction. Additional evaluations include comparing different scoring systems and examining outcomes such as the need for new EVD insertion, shunt placement, infections, and functional status up to 12 months. Throughout the study, participants will undergo clinical assessments, brain imaging reviews (CT or MRI), and tracking of any episodes of EVD obstruction. The main outcome measured is whether IVH severity predicts EVD obstruction. Secondary outcomes include infection risks, shunt requirements, and functional outcomes at hospital discharge and up to three months. The study will follow patients closely during their ICU stay and hospital course, with data collection continuing for up to a year. This thorough monitoring helps researchers understand risks and improve care for patients with IVH and EVDs.

Prediction of Undesired Obstruction in External Ventricular Drains.