Induced moderate hypothermia for the treatment of severe traumatic brain injury: West Virginia's first research case
Schmidt, J.H.; Shelford, D.L.; Reyes, B.J.
West Virginia Medical Journal 105(3): 10-12
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 0043-3284 PMID: 19456031 Document Number: 628491
The role of hypothermia in the improvement of outcomes among patients suffering severe head injury remains controversial. The "National Acute Brain Injury Study: Hypothermia (NABIS:H)" is a series of prospective trials trying to determine if this therapy provides a beneficial effect. This report describes the case of a patient ejected from a motor vehicle, who presented with a decreased level of consciousness (Glasgow Coma Scale of 5). This case illustrates our local experience with the current trial (NABIS:H IIR) being conducted in five other hospitals in the US and Canada. This was the first patient treated in West Virginia utilizing this technology. We discuss the clinical aspects of the case as well as the challenges establishing a system-wide educational program to ensure staff participation and compliance with the study protocol.