Therapeutic hypothermia for treatment of intractable intracranial hypertension after liver transplantation

Am J Crit Care. 2012 Jan;21(1):72-5. doi: 10.4037/ajcc2012924.

Abstract

A comatose 23-year-old woman with acute liver failure due to an overdose of acetaminophen had indications of intracranial hypertension and underwent liver transplantation. Her level of arousal did not improve, and on postoperative day 1, clinical signs of cerebral herniation became apparent. An intracranial pressure monitor was placed, and intracranial hypertension was documented. Elevations in intracranial pressure persisted despite maximal osmotherapy, and therapeutic hypothermia was started. Normalization of intracranial pressure was rapid. Findings on neurological examination improved and the patient was discharged from the hospital with no neurological impairment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acetaminophen / adverse effects*
  • Drug Overdose
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypothermia, Induced*
  • Intracranial Hypertension / etiology
  • Intracranial Hypertension / therapy*
  • Intracranial Pressure
  • Liver Failure, Acute / chemically induced*
  • Liver Failure, Acute / complications
  • Liver Failure, Acute / surgery
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Acetaminophen