Barbiturates in severe head injuries?
Possible mechanisms for the therapeutic effects of barbituric acid derivatives in severe head injuries have been discussed for half a century. In the following, a survey of the literature, and a discussion of three controlled clinical studies available until now is presented. A proven effect in terms of a beneficial long-term outcome for all injured patients has not been established. On the other hand there might be a subgroup of patients with an intact CO2 reactivity of the brain vessels who may profit from barbiturates administered after head trauma.
Moskopp
D
D
Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Münster, Fed. Rep. of Germany.
Ries
F
F
Wassmann
H
H
Nadstawek
J
J
D001463:Barbiturates / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001921:Brain / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D002545:Brain Ischemia / Q000473:pathology; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans
D001463:Barbiturates