Clinical Tools & Calculators

Mannitol – for raised ICP

For educational use. This tool is intended for reference and education. All care decisions require a direct clinical assessment of the patient and independent verification of doses and values by the treating team. The calculation runs locally in your browser, no patient data is sent to any server.

Mannitol – for raised ICP

An osmotic agent that draws water from the brain into the intravascular space. Used in acute raised ICP, impending herniation, and as part of neurosurgical preparation.

10
g per dose
= 50 mL of 20% mannitol
Clinical notes:
  • Infuse over 15–30 minutes (avoid rapid bolus).
  • May repeat q4–6h if ICP remains elevated.
  • Monitor serum osmolality – hold if > 320 mOsm/kg.
  • Monitor renal function, Na⁺, K⁺ – may cause dehydration and renal failure.
  • Foley catheter required – causes profound diuresis.
  • Rebound rise in ICP possible on abrupt cessation.

Reference: Kochanek PM, et al. Guidelines for the Management of Pediatric Severe Traumatic Brain Injury, Third Edition. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2019;20(3S):S1–S82. PMID 30829890 · doi:10.1097/PCC.0000000000001735

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