Cooling the brain can 'save lives and reduce brain damage' after heart attack
Heart attack victims could have their chance of survival boosted by a brain-cooling technique.
Therapeutic hypothermia is already used for some stroke patients.
Guidance issued today says the technique is safe and effective for those who suffer cardiac arrest.
During therapeutic hypothermia the body is cooled to bring brain temperature down to slow the rate at which brain cells die once they have been starved of oxygen.
This gives surgeons precious extra hours to help patients, potentially saving lives and reducing brain damage
The unconscious person has their body temperature reduced from 37C to between 32C and 34C soon after the cardiac arrest and for 12 to 24 hours afterwards.
This is done through a blanket or mattress filled with air or fluid, or a special cap.
- 0 Comment(s)
Your comment