The evaluation of intracranial pressure evaluation by optic nerve sheath diameter measurement on bedside ultrasonography after ischemic stroke.

Introduction: We aimed to predict intracranial pressure(ICP)after cerebral ischemic stroke by measuring diameter of the optic nerve sheath(ONSD)with bedside ultrasonography(US). In order to see the ICP changes,it was planned to record delta ICP changes at the 3rd and 5th day follow-up of the patients METHOTS: Patients aged 18 years or older who were admitted to the emergency department(ED)with stroke symptoms for one year were included.Demographic data,time elapsed since the onset of symptoms,neurogical status assesment scales,ONSD values measured by US in three time periods(the day the patient was admitted to the ED,the 3rd and 5th days of hospitalization),MDCT findings when the patient was admitted,ONSD values in MDCT,whether they received tissue plasminogen activator(tPA)and whether they underwent decompression surgery were recorded.

Results: The average age of the 82 patients was 67.5(range 33-89)years.Forty-two patients(51.2%)were male.On both the right and left sides,ONSD on the 3rd day was larger(>5 mm)than on first day(p < 0.05). ONSD on the 5th day was larger than on the first day(p > 0.05). All ONSD results measured using both US and MDCT showed a positive correlation between the same eye and contralateral eye measurements(p < 0.05).

Discussion: CT is the most critical radiological method for stroke patients.Transport to radyology unit in unstable patients carries risk and is not recommended.Optic nerve US can be used in the early diagnosis of ICP increase and provides early treatment.The ease of use and safety in unstable patients have increased its popularity.

Conclusion: We believe that measuring ONSD using US is an appropriate choice on ICP management in stroke patients.