Intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure in clinically normal equine neonates.

This research article highlights a study performed on eight neonatal foals, examining their intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) over the first three 24-hour periods after birth, using techniques similar to those used on humans. The results could be used in diagnosing potential CNS dysfunction in newborn horses.

Methodology

• Eight clinically normal newborn foals were the subjects of this study.
• They were allowed to orient themselves and nurse the mares before any procedure was conducted. As required, they were sedated, and local anesthesia was applied for making skin incisions.
• An indwelling subdural catheter, similar to the one used in human beings, was inserted to measure the Intracranial Pressure (ICP).
• Carotid artery catheterization was utilized to measure arterial blood pressure.
• Cerebral Perfusion Pressure (CPP) was calculated as the difference between mean arterial blood pressure and ICP.
• Both ICP and CPP readings were taken twice every 24-hour period, commencing at six hours of age and extending to 72 hours of age.

Results

• Mean ICP readings were found to be 5.83 +/- 1.82, 8.81 +/- 2.06, and 9.55 +/- 1.55 mm of Hg. This range was between 2 to 15 mm of Hg for each of the first three 24-hour periods following birth.
• Similarly, the mean CPP readings were 80.19 +/- 10.34, 75.30 +/- 10.86, and 76.80 +/- 12.59 mm of Hg, extending from 50 to 109 mm of Hg for the same time frames.
• All foals underwent physical and neurological examinations, CSF (Cerebral spinal fluid) analysis, and computerized axial tomography evaluations.
• The foals manifested normal behavior during the interval of measurements, and there were no detected adverse effects of the procedure during the monitoring period.

Conclusion

• The study established normal values for ICP and CPP which are crucial for veterinarians or practitioners who can utilize this technique for monitoring and evaluating newborn foals exhibiting signs of Central Nervous System (CNS) dysfunction.