[Auditory evoked brain stem potentials--possibilities and problems in the intensive care unit].

BAEP can be recorded under anesthesiologic intensive care conditions. The method does not depend on the patient's state of consciousness and is noninvasive. Observations of the course and topodiagnosis are also possible, as is an assessment of the depth of coma. The sensitivity to centrally active drugs and metabolic influences is comparatively low. For recording and evaluation of signals the specific conditions in an intensive care unit have to be taken into account, with regard to both the patients as well as the technical equipment. Continuous monitoring with so-called "compressed" BAEP broadens the scope of acute diagnosis of brain stem lesions.