Neurointensiv behandling af svaere traumatiske hjerneskader

We present a Danish algorithm for the neurointensive care of patients with severe traumatic brain injury. The primary goal is to avoid cerebral ischaemia and hypoxia and secondarily brain injury. Patient evaluation by a neurosurgeon is mandatory, and decision-making concerning extended cerebral monitoring should take place immediately. Treatment aiming at diminishing increased intracranial pressure should be initiated early. Early critical care management of patients with severe traumatic brain injury should be performed in a teamwork comprising various specialties.