What are some of the reasons ICP monitoring may be necessary? ICP ( intracranial pressure) monitoring is generally done to reduce swelling on the brain. A patient who had a stroke and subsequently bleeding into the brain, may require ICP monitoring. A blow to the head, a skiing accident and many more may cause swelling and increase pressure in the brain. Regardless of the cause , quick intervention is needed to prevent further damage to the brain. Please refer to the post named - Why is ICP Monitoring done for the layperson.