CPP reflects perfusion problems related to increased ICP or inadequate MAP. CPP is a most helpful and practical management tool. The relationship of CBF and CPP depends on cerebral vascular resistance (flow equals pressure divided by resistance). At present, we do not have a practical method to measure vascular resistance or CBV. A close relationship between an increase in CBV and increase in ICP exists. However, the relationship between CBF and ICP is more complex. Whereas CBV is strongly dependent on vasodilation and venous return, CBF is influenced by CPP, vascular resistance, viscosity changes, and focally or diffusely increased ICP. For instance, in hypotensive shock one finds a low CBF with an elevated CBV (and ICP) from vasodilation related to hypercapnia, anoxia, or acidosis. Nevertheless, about two thirds of patients with increased ICP after head injury have increased CBF (hyperemia) and increased CBV. This frequent hyperemia is one rationale for the wide usage of hyperventilation to treat increased ICP. It must be recognized that a group of patients may have ischemia caused by excessive hyperventilation therapy for increased ICP. The PaCO2 must not be allowed to decrease to 20 mmHg or lower, but in some patients a PaCO2 level of 21 to 25 may be predisposing to ischemia. Strong consideration is thus given to monitoring CBF and cerebral oxygen metabolism (arteriovenous oxygen content difference [AVDO2], CMRO2) in states of coma and increased ICP. In such patients, continuous infusion of mannitol may result in improved CBF, and hyperventilation therapy can be less aggressive.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)