This procedure assesses the cessation of breathing in the context of irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brainstem. It involves disconnecting a patient from the ventilator for a short period while monitoring blood carbon dioxide levels and observing for any respiratory effort. A significant rise in carbon dioxide without observed breathing movements provides evidence supporting the absence of brainstem respiratory function.
The evaluation plays a crucial role in the determination of death by neurologic criteria. Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate medical management and provides the legal and ethical foundation for organ donation, where applicable. Its adoption as a standard clinical practice represents a significant advance in medical ethics and the management of critically ill patients. Historically, reliance on circulatory and respiratory cessation alone was insufficient, particularly with advancements in life support technologies.
