Large-scale referencing of the telemetric neurovent-P-tel intracranial pressure sensor in a porcine model.

The Neurovent-P-tel sensor is a promising device for telemetric intracranial pressure (ICP) measurements in cases of complex hydrocephalus. Data on its accuracy within a broad ICP range are missing. We applied a porcine model for large-scale manipulation of the ICP values. The telemetric ICP sensor was referenced against ICP values measured directly from a water column within a riser tube. A total of 34 comparative ICP measurements within an ICP range from 2 cm H2O to 31 mm Hg were performed. The mean difference between both measurement techniques was 0.4 mm Hg. The limits of agreement, where 95% of differences between both methods are expected, were from -2.4 to 3.1 mm Hg. The telemetric Neurovent-P-tel sensor system provides good accuracy within a broad range exceeding normal ICP values and might be useful in clinical practice.