Application and Limitations of Hypothermia Therapy for Traumatic Brain Injury(<SPECIAL ISSUE>Traumatic Head Injury Update)

Abstract

No treatment method for severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) has proven effective to replace hypothermia therapy, emphasizing the major role of this therapy for patients with TBI. To improve the effectiveness of hypothermia therapy, earlier hypothermia induction is necessary, and management of brain temperature should be based on individual pathophysiology through neuromonitoring during the maintenance and rewarming periods of this therapy. Recently, the protective effects of hypothermia therapy have been confirmed for patients with severe TBI after craniotomy. The outcome of TBI patients with hypothermia therapy is expected to improve with the use of the brain temperature management method and selection of appropriate pathophysiology.