Management of complicated neurologic injuries.

Despite measures based on the Monro-Kellie principles for ICP reduction and optimization of cerebral perfusion pressure, the outcome from complicated neurologic injuries remains unsatisfactory. Many patients are "pulled through" the acute event only to remain minimally functional or vegetative for the remainder of their lives. Pharmacologic interventions to protect the brain against the toxic and metabolic consequences of neurologic injury seem to be the future of neurotrauma.