The effects on intracranial pressure of stopping controlled ventilation in patients with head injuries.

The effects on intracranial pressure (ICP) of stopping artificial ventilation, were studied in 34 of 75 patients with severe head injuries in whom early long-term respirator treatment was undertaken. The changes in ICP after switching off the ventilator appeared to be correlated with paCO2 and paO2 levels, brain elasticity and vascular reactivity.