Is brain herniation the same as brain death?
Oct 20, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Shichang
Introduction
In general, brain herniation is not equivalent to brain death. The detailed explanation is as follows: brain herniation and brain death are two distinct concepts. If brain herniation is not actively treated, it may progress further and eventually lead to brain death. Patients with brain herniation may still exhibit spontaneous breathing, physiological reflexes, and pathological reflexes. Patients can follow medical advice to receive treatments such as mannitol injection or furosemide injection.
In general, brain herniation is not equivalent to brain death. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Brain herniation and brain death are two distinct concepts. If brain herniation is not actively treated, it may progress with the condition and eventually lead to brain death. Patients with brain herniation may still exhibit spontaneous breathing, physiological reflexes, and pathological reflexes. Such patients can be treated with medications such as mannitol injection or furosemide injection, as directed by a physician. In contrast, brain death refers to irreversible loss of all brain functions, characterized primarily by bilaterally dilated pupils, absence of both physiological and pathological reflexes, and lack of spontaneous respiration. For supportive management, patients may take medications such as paroxetine hydrochloride tablets or oxiracetam capsules under medical guidance.
If a patient experiences any discomfort or symptoms, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
