burst suppression
An EEG pattern alternating between high-amplitude bursts and periods of suppressed activity, indicating severe brain dysfunction.
Full Definition
Burst suppression is a distinctive EEG pattern characterized by alternating periods of high-amplitude mixed-frequency activity (bursts) and intervals of markedly suppressed or isoelectric background (suppression periods). The burst periods typically last 1-10 seconds and contain theta, delta, and sometimes sharp waves or spikes, while suppression periods show minimal electrical activity below 10 microvolts. This pattern indicates severe global brain dysfunction and can result from anesthesia, hypothermia, hypoxic-ischemic injury, or metabolic disorders. The burst suppression ratio (percentage of suppression time) is used to quantify the pattern's severity and monitor treatment response.
Usage
Usage note: Always report the suppression ratio when documenting this pattern.
In Context
- "The EEG showed burst suppression with 70% suppression ratio following cardiac arrest." — Critical care neurology report
- "Burst suppression pattern resolved as the anesthetic agents were metabolized." — Post-operative monitoring note