Preparation Only be performed once the absence of brainstem reflex activity has been confirmedEnsure cardiovascular stability maintainedEnsure utilization of end tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) monitoring, pulse oximetry, blood pressure monitoring and blood gas...
Reflex movements of the limbs and torso may still occur in brainstem death: Spinally mediated reflexes and automatisms can be retained even after confirmation of death Often misinterpreted by laypersons as signs of purposeful brain function Careful neurologic...
Non-purposeful movements occur due to lack of descending inhibition of primitive spinal motor reflex pathways: What are the common spinally generated...
Ancillary tests are not routinely required for diagnosis of brainstem death There are several circumstances where brain death cannot be confirmed according to clinical testing alone: Inability to exclude the influence of residual sedative drugs High cervical cord...
Measures of brain Electrical Activity EEG Most popular and validated test worldwide, though there has been a recent move away Isoelectric EEG may be mimicked by conditions such as hypothermia, barbiturates, or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants - hence it...
