Cerebral physiology and preservation during cardiac arrest

Abstract

Cerebral physiology during cardiac arrest is discussed with particular Interest on selective neuronal damage. Previous concepts on brain tolerance to hypoxia are analyzed and new information about brain function prognosis after cardiac arrest is presented. Therapeutic alternatives for brain preservation are discussed with emphasis on the lack of effectiveness of barbiturates, the results of research with other drugs and the future role that blockers of excitatory neurotransmission may have as elements of cerebral preservation.