The use of hypothermia as a method of neuroprotection during neurosurgical procedures and after traumatic brain injury: a survey of clinical practice in Great Britain and Ireland.
Hypothermia has been employed as a method of neuroprotection for many decades. The evidence base for its use is limited, and the balance between benefit and risk is unclear. We felt that in light of this confusion it would be interesting to canvas the opinion of the members of The Neuroanaesthesia Society of Great Britain and Ireland. A questionnaire was sent to all 274 members enquiring into their use of hypothermia during a variety of different neurosurgical procedures and in the management of the head-injured patient. A 75% response rate was achieved. The results showed that over half (58%) of those who replied attempted to cool the patient during cerebral aneurysm surgery. Forty-one per cent of respondents attempt to induce hypothermia in the head-injured patient. However, for other neurosurgical procedures most felt that the disadvantages of cooling the patient outweigh the advantages. The use of hypothermia remains a contentious issue, and as yet there is no clear answer as to whether it should be employed as a method of neuroprotection.
Pemberton
P L
PL
Atkinson Morley's Hospital, Copse Hill, London SW20 0NE, UK. pippa.pemberton@virgin.net
Dinsmore
J
J
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D007036:Hypothermia, Induced / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D007430:Intraoperative Care / Q000379:methods*; D007494:Ireland; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures; D011364:Professional Practice / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom