burst suppression
An EEG pattern characterized by alternating periods of high-amplitude activity and electrical suppression.
Full Definition
Burst suppression is a distinctive electroencephalographic pattern consisting of alternating episodes of high-amplitude mixed-frequency activity ('bursts') and periods of very low amplitude or isoelectric activity ('suppression'). This pattern indicates severe brain dysfunction and can result from various causes including anesthetic overdose, hypothermia, hypoxic-ischemic injury, or metabolic encephalopathy. The burst suppression ratio (percentage of suppression) is often quantified and used to guide anesthetic depth during procedures or assess prognosis in comatose patients. In some cases, burst suppression may be therapeutically induced to treat refractory status epilepticus.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; quantify suppression ratio when clinically relevant.
In Context
- "The EEG showed burst suppression with a suppression ratio of 85% following cardiac arrest." — ICU monitoring report
- "Burst suppression was induced using pentobarbital to control refractory status epilepticus." — Neurocritical care documentation