Induced moderate hypothermia for the treatment of severe traumatic brain injury: West Virginia's first research case.
The role of hypothermia in the improvement of outcomes among patients suffering severe head injury remains controversial. The "National Acute Brain Injury Study: Hypothermia (NABIS:H)" is a series of prospective trials trying to determine if this therapy provides a beneficial effect. This report describes the case of a patient ejected from a motor vehicle, who presented with a decreased level of consciousness (Glasgow Coma Scale of 5). This case illustrates our local experience with the current trial (NABIS:H IIR) being conducted in five other hospitals in the US and Canada. This was the first patient treated in West Virginia utilizing this technology. We discuss the clinical aspects of the case as well as the challenges establishing a system-wide educational program to ensure staff participation and compliance with the study protocol.
Schmidt
John H
JH
West Virginia University, School of Medicine, USA.
Shelford
Daniel L
DL
Reyes
Bernardo J
BJ
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007036:Hypothermia, Induced; D014903:West Virginia