Introduction
Diversion of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an established means for achieving control of intracranial pressure (ICP), aimed at improving intracranial homeostasis. The literature and anecdotal reports suggest a variation in practice between neurosurgical centres internationally, with current guidelines advocating ventricular drainage over lumbar drainage. We sought to establish the current neurosurgical practice in the United Kingdom regarding the methods of ICP control in TBI.
Methods
A 20-point survey was distributed electronically to British and Irish neurosurgeons after ratification by the Society of British Neurological Surgeons. Questions were directed at the clinician’s opinion and experience of lumbar drain usage in patients with TBI: frequency, rationale, and experience of complications. Questions on lumbar drain usage in neurovascular patients were asked for practice comparison.
Results
Thirty-six responses from 2
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L to r: Professors Javadpour and O’Brien talk to IMT Editor Terence Cosgrave during IMT’s first ever podcast. Pic: Paul Sherwood
Mater not the right choice as Major Trauma Centre
The Health Minister’s proposed site for a major trauma centre is not based on international best practice.
Prof Mohsen Javadpour, Consultant Neurosurgeon at the National Neurosurgical Centre and
Prof Donncha O’Brien argue that the decision to locate the Centre outside of the main neurosurgical Centre in Beaumont is wrong
On April 27, 2021, the Minister for Health announced the implementation of the national trauma system in Ireland. Minister Donnelly announced the Mater Hospital as the designated major trauma centre for the central trauma network.