Life-sustaining mechanical ventilation care for children with progressive or degenerative brain disorders
Sasaki, M.; Sugai, K.; Hanaoka, S.; Fukumizu, M.; Kaga, M.
No to Hattatsu 33(3): 253-258
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-0831 PMID: 11391969 Document Number: 537940
In the past 10 years, we have treated 25 patients with chronic respiratory insufficiency due to a progressive or degenerative brain disorder. Ten patients died and the other 15 survived. Five of the former and 12 of the latter received life-sustaining mechanical ventilation care. Even in the terminal stage of progressive or degenerative brain disorders, patients can survive for a longer period than previously, if life-sustaining mechanical ventilation care is given. In Japan we do not have a guideline for medical indication or decision-making for children with progressive or degenerative brain disorders. Whenever we see such patients, we have great difficulty in making a decision. It may therefore be necessary to discuss whether we should have such a guideline.