Use of moderate hypothermia during elective craniotomy.
Use of moderate hypothermia as an adjunct to elective craniotomy is described in 21 patients. Systemic hypothermia to 32 degrees C was induced by cooling blankets at a mean cooling rate of 1.6 degrees C/min. Patients were rewarmed at the same rate prior to closure of wounds. There were no hypothermia-related complications and the method increased brain relaxation. The rationale for use of this therapy in elective craniotomy and severe head injury is reviewed.
Clifton
G L
GL
Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston 77030.
Christensen
M L
ML
D000784:Aortic Dissection / Q000601:surgery; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D016893:Carotid Stenosis / Q000601:surgery; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000601:surgery*; D003399:Craniotomy; D006801:Humans; D007036:Hypothermia, Induced; D002532:Intracranial Aneurysm / Q000601:surgery; D002538:Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / Q000601:surgery