Neurológia pre prax 4/2009

General therapy for acute cerebral infarction

The goal of the general therapy for acute cerebral infarction is to prevent the progression of cerebral ischemia as well as to prevent and treat complications. It is of utmost importance to ensure adequate oxygenation and cerebral perfusion pressure. It is essential to maintain normothermia, to maintain optimum hydration and internal environment conditions, to initiate enteral nutrition early, and to provide prophylaxis against thromboembolic disease. In the acute phase of cerebral infarction, hypertension, tachycardia, and psychomotor agitation are commonly encountered and epileptic seizures may occur. Decompressive craniectomy can be a life-saving procedure in patients with a large cerebral infarction.

Keywords: cerebral infarction, aspiration, arterial hypertension, epileptic seizure, decompressive craniectomy.