Optic Nerve Ultrasonography to Detect Increased Intracranial Pressure

Ultrasound measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter is a new technique to evaluate intracranial pressure. This procedure is sensitive and specific and is a useful adjunct to invasive intracranial-catheter monitoring. Ultrasound can be used in emergency departments and in intensive care units. To determine the accuracy of optic nerve ultrasound in detecting elevated intracranial pressure, researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of relevant studies in 13 databases from inception through May 2019.

In total, 71 studies involving 4551 patients were eligible. Of these studies, 18 included patients with traumatic brain injury, 26 included patients with nontraumatic brain injury, and 27 included both types of brain injury. Sens…