Cerebral Monitoring in the OR and ICU

This comprehensive volume will serve as a complete guide to the clinical application of computer assisted systems in monitoring central nervous functions both in the OR and ICU. It presents practical guidelines and therapeutic indications for computerized EEG and Somatosensory Evoked Potential (SSEP) monitoring for the experienced user as well as the novice, leading the newcomer step-by-step to a level of advanced monitoring. Basic procedures and data handling are explained in a user-friendly and practical way.

The book also describes what cerebral monitoring can do and what its limitations are. In addition, proper selection of the available monitoring devices, set-up procedures, the technique of electrode placement, trouble shooting and data interpretation are fully covered. Various typical cases underline how EEG power spectra and evoked potential changes are interpreted, how they are used in the light of other variables being measured how they can serve to get a deeper insight into the underlying clinical situation. In this respect representative and color illustrated examples further emphasize the link between this book and clinical practice.

In a final chapter new trends such as spinal evoked potentials are presented and their possible use in vascular surgery are discussed. Cerebral Monitoring in the Operating Room and the Intensive Care Unit will prove to be an extremely useful reference work for all physicians and medical staff involved in patient care who require further information on changes in the central nervous system, opening a window to the brain.