Editor’s Capsule Summary
What is already known on this topic
Historically, ketamine has been considered contraindicated in the setting of potential elevation of intracranial pressure.
What question this study addressed
Does ketamine raise intracranial pressure or worsen neurologic outcomes?
What this study adds to our knowledge
This systematic review of 10 trials including 953 adults either intubated or undergoing intubation found mixed effect on intracranial pressure (all changes mild) and no adverse effect on cerebral perfusion pressure or neurologic outcomes.
How this is relevant to clinical practice
The best available evidence suggests that ketamine is unlikely to meaningfully elevate intracranial pressure.