therapeutic hypothermia
Controlled cooling intervention to reduce metabolic demand and prevent secondary brain injury. Established neuroprotective therapy in pediatric cardiac arrest.
Full Definition
Therapeutic hypothermia is a medical intervention involving controlled reduction of core body temperature to 32-34°C (89.6-93.2°F) to provide neuroprotection following cardiac arrest or hypoxic-ischemic events. The technique reduces cerebral metabolic rate, decreases inflammation, and may prevent secondary neuronal injury. In pediatric critical care, therapeutic hypothermia is most commonly used following successful resuscitation from cardiac arrest, particularly when return of spontaneous circulation is achieved but the patient remains comatose. The intervention involves an induction phase (rapid cooling), maintenance phase (typically 24 hours), and controlled rewarming phase (gradual temperature normalization over 12-24 hours). Complications can include coagulopathy, electrolyte disturbances, and increased infection risk.
Usage
Usage note: Also referred to as targeted temperature management (TTM) in current literature.
In Context
- "Therapeutic hypothermia was initiated following successful resuscitation from ventricular fibrillation arrest." — Pediatric critical care treatment plan
- "The rewarming phase of therapeutic hypothermia must be gradual to prevent rebound hyperthermia." — Neurocritical care protocol