Rapidly advancing technologies in the field of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR)
have presented a new challenge in accurate neuroprognostication following cardiac arrest. Determination of
brain state informs the prognostic picture and allows providers to begin effective communication regarding
likelihood of meaningful neurological recovery as defined by patients or family members. The evolving role
of sedation during ECPR and its impacts on ethical tension in decision-makin…
Read moreRapidly advancing technologies in the field of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR)
have presented a new challenge in accurate neuroprognostication following cardiac arrest. Determination of
brain state informs the prognostic picture and allows providers to begin effective communication regarding
likelihood of meaningful neurological recovery as defined by patients or family members. The evolving role
of sedation during ECPR and its impacts on ethical tension in decision-making is reviewed. Work surrounding
the advancing field of neuroprognostication after cardiac arrest and hypothermia is summarized and implications of premature withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments are discussed. Advances that improve predictive
value for neurological recovery are utilized in affirming and discussing the implications for end-of-life wishes of individuals in the setting of intensive resuscitative therapies.
