Effect of magnesium sulphate on the intracranial pressure of preeclampsia patients using ultrasound-guided optic nerve sheath diameter: A pilot study

BACKGROUND: Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a known complication of pre-eclampsia with severe features. The use of magnesium sulphate (MgSO(4)) is the standard treatment and is associated with marked reduction of cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) and prevention of cerebral damage. Optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) ultrasonography is a bedside tool used to reflect changes in the ICP. The aim of this study is to detect the effect of MgSO(4) administration on ICP in severe preeclampsia through measuring changes in the ONDS. METHODS: Thirty pregnant female patients suffering from severe pre-eclampsia were enrolled in this prospective pilot study. Ultrasound measurement of ONSD was measured before the commencement of MgSO4 and after 1, 6, and 24 h after the administration. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in ONSD measurements between that at baseline and post magnesium administration at 1, 6, and 24 h (P-value 0.001). Additionally, a significant difference in measurements between 1 and 6 and 6 and 24 h after magnesium initiation (P-value 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound ONSD measurement in patients with severe preeclampsia is a non-invasive easy tool to detect increased intracranial pressure and monitor the response to magnesium sulphate infusion.