Semin Neurol 2007; 27(4): 393-399
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-985330
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Determining Brain Death: Back to the Basics

Joseph Drazkowski1
  • 1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Hospital, Phoenix, Arizona
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
15 August 2007 (online)

ABSTRACT

The subject of brain death usually becomes clinically relevant during a tremendously stressful time. For most practitioners, the need to make a diagnosis of brain death occurs infrequently. Since the introduction of the concept of brain death, the criteria have been refined to their current state. The historical background and the current standards and guidelines used to diagnose brain death will be reviewed. Potential future changes in brain death criteria when contemplating organ donation in the critically ill patient will be discussed.

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Joseph DrazkowskiM.D. 

Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Hospital

5777 East Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85054

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