This procedure involves inserting a small, pressure sensitive probe into the skull through a small hole, just a few millimeters in diameter drilled through the skull. This is normally performed under a general anaesthetic although can be performed under local.
The probe is held in place by a small bolt attached to the skull and the device is commonly referred to as an” ICP bolt”. The probe is connected to an electronic monitoring system giving a continuous readout of intracranial pressure (ICP).
A larger hole can sometimes be fashioned such as a
burr hole which allows the probe to be tunnelled under the skin without a skull bolt. The same burr hole can be further utilised for a
shunt procedure if required.
The probe will measure the ICP over a set amount of time (usually 24 hours) so that the results can be monitored, linked to symptoms or activities and any abnormalities identified.
Removal of the monitor is easy and usually performed under local anaesthetic.
The procedure carries very few risks but a remote chance (<1%) of causing intracranial bleeding or introducing infection (<1%) which may lead to a threat to the brain and require further treatment.
The procedure would only leave a very small scar behind the hairline and the skull hole will normally heal over with cartilage or bone.
