Imaging of Irreversible Loss of Brain Function

Abstract

The updated guidelines for the determination of irreversible loss of brain function include a substantial innovation, i. e., the use of CT angiography as a supplementary technical examination. Adherence to a standardized protocol is the prerequisite for the application of CT angiography. The guidelines for standardized execution of perfusion scintigraphy are unchanged and still valid. Requirements regarding the quality of examining physicians are specified.

Key points:

• The guidelines for determining irreversible loss of brain function were updated.

• The approval of CT angiography as a supplementary examination method is a major innovation.

• CT angiography is to be performed to determine the cessation of cerebral blood circulation according to a standard protocol.

• The guidelines for the standardized implementation of perfusion scintigraphy continue to be valid.

• Quality requirements regarding examining physicians were specified.

Citation Format:

• Lanfermann H, Schober O. Imaging of Irreversible Loss of Brain Function. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2016; 188: 23 – 26

Zusammenfassung

In den aktualisierten Richtlinien zur Feststellung des irreversiblen Hirnfunktionsausfalles wird als wesentliche Neuerung die CT-Angiografie als ergänzendes apparatives Untersuchungsverfahren zugelassen. Voraussetzung für den Einsatz der CT-Angiografie ist die Einhaltung eines Standardprotokolls. Die Richtlinien zur standardisierten Durchführung der Perfusionsszintigrafie sind unverändert fortgeschrieben. Die Qualitätsanforderungen der untersuchenden Ärzte werden präzisiert.

Key words

brain death - brain perfusion - scintigraphy - quality control - CT angiography

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