Abstract: Disclosed herein is an intrathecal catheter having a lumen adapted to transfer liquid between the proximal end of the catheter and its distal end; a pressure detector; and a first sealer, adapted to seal the catheter against a tissue. Also disclosed herein is a stroke intervention system comprising an intrathecal catheter, an infusate supply chamber in fluid communication with the catheter; a pump in fluid communication with the catheter; and a pressure gauge in fluid communication with the pressure detector. Disclosed are also methods of reducing neural injury in a patient during a stroke comprising introducing a catheter intravenously or into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) system of the patient; measuring a baseline pressure; infusing and withdrawing infusate fluid into the cerebral venous vasculature or the CSF system at regular intervals.