Diagnostic value of neurophysiological tests in the diagnosis of brain death--do we need changes in national guidelines?

ABSTRACT

For a final diagnosis of brain death one needs particular proof that the brain has fully stopped functioning. In this respect, diagnostic tests need to be used to confirm the clinical findings. Since in different countries there are various national guidelines for the determination of brain death, the aim of this study is to point to the diagnostic value of electroencephalography (EEG) and evoked potentials (EP) in verifying brain death. The need is emphasized for the two methods to be used in combination, and, accordingly, for the current national guidelines to be changed in our country and also in other countries round the world.