Assessment and Management of Pediatric Trauma
Module 4: Pediatric Head Injuries
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Raised ICP - Brain Herniation

  • Uncontrolled increases in ICP push the brain downward
  • The brain can herniate laterally (1) or downwards (2) through the tentorium cerebri or through the foramen magnum (3) (numbers refer to diagram below)
  • Herniation of brainstem through the foramen magnum produces Cushing's Triad -- hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations
Skull diagram
Module 4: Pediatric Head Injuries