Semin Neurol 2006; 26(4): 422-431
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-948323
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Long-Term Neurological Complications after Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

Sandeep Khot1 , David L. Tirschwell1
  • 1Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
10 August 2006 (online)

ABSTRACT

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy accompanying cardiac arrest is a common cause of long-term neurological dysfunction. With the improvement in prehospital emergency systems, larger numbers of people are resuscitated from cardiac arrests, although with the increased prospect of neurological sequelae. Neurological impairment after cardiac arrest is dependent on the degree of brain damage suffered during the arrest. Although the duration and severity of brain ischemia is often difficult to determine, clinicians are often faced with difficult issues related to predicting outcome related to awakening and long-term neurological deficits after the arrest. Neurological impairments range from mild cognitive deficits to severe motor and cognitive deficits that preclude independence in many activities of daily living. Several neurological syndromes have been described in patients who awaken from hypoxic-ischemic coma with lasting motor and cognitive deficits. This review will address many of the common syndromes after hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, including persistent vegetative states, seizures, myoclonus, movement disorders, cognitive dysfunction, and other neurological abnormalities.

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Sandeep KhotM.D. M.P.H. 

Department of Neurology, University of Washington

1959 NE Pacific Street, Box 356465, Seattle, WA 98195

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