Definition
Brainstem death is the irreversible loss of all functions of the brainstem, resulting in permanent loss of consciousness and inability to breathe spontaneously. It is considered equivalent to death of the individual even though cardiac activity may continue temporarily with artificial support.
Essential Preconditions
Before testing, the following must be fulfilled:
- Cause of coma must be established.
- Irreversible brain damage must be present.
- Patient must not be under the influence of CNS depressant drugs.
- Hypothermia should be excluded.
- Metabolic and endocrine disturbances should be corrected.