[Pressure-dependent outflow resistance in cerebrospinal fluid dynamics: evaluation a calculation model for diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus in an animal experiment with H-Tx rats].

The internationally accepted methods of calculating cerebrospinal fluid dynamics proceed from the assumption of a pressure-independent resistance to CSF outflow. Our new model focusses on the pressure-dependency of this resistance. In it, we monitor the entire pressure course over time, p(t) during and after infusion. A comparison of the pressure rise, On(p), during infusion, and the decrease, Off(p), to the same pressure level, permits the creation of all the formulas for C(p) and R(p). The simultaneous measurement of resistance and compliance during a single intervention allows us to minimize patient exertion. In contrast to the classical methods, it is not necessary for the ICP to reach a plateau. Our mathematical model differs from the static examination model by describing a pressure-dependent slope of the function for the resistance. This has been demonstrated in a study using H-Tx rats. In this way, we are able to take the non-linearity of the CSF resorption into consideration.