Intracranial pressure monitoring in perspective.

Monitoring of intracranial pressure has become increasingly widespread in a variety of conditions. The information gained has allowed for the development of certain principles of management in patients with presumed or potential intracranial hypertension. These principles are applicable whether ICP monitoring is employed or not. Aggressive management of severe intracranial hypertension may improve survival; however, data from several studies are inconclusive. The author attempts to review developments in the field and assess the impact of this modality of therapy in pediatric neurosurgical practice.