[-The effect of ondansetron on intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure in neurosurgical patients-].

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of ondansetron on intracranial pressure (ICP), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP).

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, comparative, randomized double-blind study.

PATIENTS

Twenty-six patients undergoing intracranial surgery.

METHOD

Induction was obtained with propofol (1-2.5 mg.kg-1), fentanyl (1.5 micrograms.kg-1) and pancuronium (0.1 mg.kg-1), and maintenance was achieved with propofol and fentanyl. Intermittent positive pressure ventilation was used to ensure mild hypocapnia at 35 +/- 2 mmHg. Positioning of the patient was followed by 15 minutes steady-state. Patient received thereafter either 8 mg ondansetron or a placebo intravenously. The ICP was measured using a lumbar malleable spinal needle. CPP was calculated using the formula CCP = MAP-ICP. All variables were measured every minute for 15 minutes.

RESULTS

The ICP, MAP and CPP did not differ between the two groups. There were no differences in the highest ICP values in patients receiving either ondansetron or placebo (11 +/- 5 versus 9 +/- 5, mean +/- SD), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous administration of 8 mg ondansetron affects neither cerebral hemodynamics nor ICP.