1
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Ramsburg H, Fischer AG, MacKenzie Greenle M, Fehnel CR. Care of the Patient Nearing the End of Life in the Neurointensive Care Unit. Neurocrit Care 2024:10.1007/s12028-024-02064-5. [PMID: 39103717 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-024-02064-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurologically critically ill patients present with unique disease trajectories, prognostic uncertainties, and challenges to end-of-life (EOL) care. Acute brain injuries place these patients at risk for underrecognized symptoms and unmet EOL management needs, which can negatively affect their quality of care and lead to complicated grief in surviving loved ones. To care for patients nearing the EOL in the neurointensive care unit, health care clinicians must consider neuroanatomic localization, barriers to symptom assessment and management, unique aspects of the dying process, and EOL management needs. AIM We aim to define current best practices, barriers, and future directions for EOL care of the neurologically critically ill patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Ramsburg
- Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, PA, USA.
| | | | | | - Corey R Fehnel
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Neurocritical Care and Hospital Neurology, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Hebrew SeniorLife Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Boston, MA, USA
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2
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Kazazian K, Edlow BL, Owen AM. Detecting awareness after acute brain injury. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:836-844. [PMID: 39030043 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00209-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Advances over the past two decades in functional neuroimaging have provided new diagnostic and prognostic tools for patients with severe brain injury. Some of the most pertinent developments in this area involve the assessment of residual brain function in patients in the intensive care unit during the acute phase of severe injury, when they are at their most vulnerable and prognosis is uncertain. Advanced neuroimaging techniques, such as functional MRI and EEG, have now been used to identify preserved cognitive processing, including covert conscious awareness, and to relate them to outcome in patients who are behaviourally unresponsive. Yet, technical and logistical challenges to clinical integration of these advanced neuroimaging techniques remain, such as the need for specialised expertise to acquire, analyse, and interpret data and to determine the appropriate timing for such assessments. Once these barriers are overcome, advanced functional neuroimaging technologies could improve diagnosis and prognosis for millions of patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karnig Kazazian
- Western Institute of Neuroscience, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Athinoula A Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Adrian M Owen
- Western Institute of Neuroscience, Western University, London, ON, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Psychology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
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3
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Mpouzika M, Karanikola M, Blot S. The conundrum of predicting neurological outcomes in non-traumatic coma patients: True prediction or "Flipping a Coin"? Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2024; 83:103707. [PMID: 38636295 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2024.103707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Meropi Mpouzika
- Nursing Department, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus.
| | - Maria Karanikola
- Nursing Department, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Stijn Blot
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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4
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Fins JJ, Shulman KS. Neuroethics, Covert Consciousness, and Disability Rights: What Happens When Artificial Intelligence Meets Cognitive Motor Dissociation? J Cogn Neurosci 2024; 36:1667-1674. [PMID: 38579252 DOI: 10.1162/jocn_a_02157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
In this article, we consider the intersection of cognitive motor dissociation (CMD) and artificial intelligence (AI), hence when CMD meets AI. In covert consciousness, there is a discordance between the observed behavior, the traditional bedside mode of assessment, and the response to volitional commands as depicted by neuroimaging or EEG studies. This alphabet soup of acronyms represents both the promise and peril of nascent technology in covert consciousness. On the diagnostic side, there is the complexity and uncertainty of identifying the discordance between cognitive activity and overt behavior. On the therapeutic side, when AI is used to generate speech, there is the possibility of misrepresenting the thoughts and intentions of those who are otherwise voiceless. This concordance of factors makes the application of AI to CMD worthy of deeper consideration. We offer this analysis in the spirit of anticipatory governance, a prudential process by which one plans to prevent or mitigate unintended consequences of novel technology. We first consider the normative challenges posed by CMD for clinical practice, neuroethics, and the law. We then explore the history of covert consciousness and the relationship of severe brain injury to the right-to-die movement, before introducing three biographies of brain injury that highlight the potential impact of disability bias or ableism in clinical practice, assistive technology, and translational research. Subsequently, we explore how AI might give voice to conscious individuals who are unable to communicate and the ethical challenges that this technology must overcome to promote human flourishing drawing upon what Nussbaum and Sen have described as a "capabilities approach" to promote normative reasoning.
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5
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Leskinen S, Singha S, Mehta NH, Quelle M, Shah HA, D'Amico RS. Applications of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging to the Study of Functional Connectivity and Activation in Neurological Disease: A Scoping Review of the Literature. World Neurosurg 2024; 189:185-192. [PMID: 38843969 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has transformed our understanding of brain's functional architecture, providing critical insights into neurological diseases. This scoping review synthesizes the current landscape of fMRI applications across various neurological domains, elucidating the evolving role of both task-based and resting-state fMRI in different settings. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive scoping review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Extensive searches in Medline/PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were performed, focusing on studies published between 2003 and 2023 that utilized fMRI to explore functional connectivity and regional activation in adult patients with neurological conditions. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, with data extracted. RESULTS We identified 211 studies, covering a broad spectrum of neurological disorders including mental health, movement disorders, epilepsy, neurodegeneration, traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular accidents, vascular abnormalities, neurorehabilitation, neuro-critical care, and brain tumors. The majority of studies utilized resting-state fMRI, underscoring its prominence in identifying disease-specific connectivity patterns. Results highlight the potential of fMRI to reveal the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of various neurological conditions, facilitate diagnostic processes, and potentially guide therapeutic interventions. CONCLUSIONS fMRI serves as a powerful tool for elucidating complex neural dynamics and pathologies associated with neurological diseases. Despite the breadth of applications, further research is required to standardize fMRI protocols, improve interpretative methodologies, and enhance the translation of imaging findings to clinical practice. Advances in fMRI technology and analytics hold promise for improving the precision of neurological assessments and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Leskinen
- State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Souvik Singha
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital/Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Neel H Mehta
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Harshal A Shah
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital/Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New York, NY, USA
| | - Randy S D'Amico
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital/Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New York, NY, USA
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6
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Young MJ, Kazazian K, Fischer D, Lissak IA, Bodien YG, Edlow BL. Disclosing Results of Tests for Covert Consciousness: A Framework for Ethical Translation. Neurocrit Care 2024; 40:865-878. [PMID: 38243150 PMCID: PMC11147696 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01899-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The advent of neurotechnologies including advanced functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography to detect states of awareness not detectable by traditional bedside neurobehavioral techniques (i.e., covert consciousness) promises to transform neuroscience research and clinical practice for patients with brain injury. As these interventions progress from research tools into actionable, guideline-endorsed clinical tests, ethical guidance for clinicians on how to responsibly communicate the sensitive results they yield is crucial yet remains underdeveloped. Drawing on insights from empirical and theoretical neuroethics research and our clinical experience with advanced neurotechnologies to detect consciousness in behaviorally unresponsive patients, we critically evaluate ethical promises and perils associated with disclosing the results of clinical covert consciousness assessments and describe a semistructured approach to responsible data sharing to mitigate potential risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Young
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 101 Merrimac Street, Suite 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - Karnig Kazazian
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 101 Merrimac Street, Suite 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Western Institute of Neuroscience, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - David Fischer
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - India A Lissak
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 101 Merrimac Street, Suite 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Yelena G Bodien
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 101 Merrimac Street, Suite 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 101 Merrimac Street, Suite 310, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
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7
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Gallucci A, Varoli E, Del Mauro L, Hassan G, Rovida M, Comanducci A, Casarotto S, Lo Re V, Romero Lauro LJ. Multimodal approaches supporting the diagnosis, prognosis and investigation of neural correlates of disorders of consciousness: A systematic review. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:874-933. [PMID: 38140883 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The limits of the standard, behaviour-based clinical assessment of patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) prompted the employment of functional neuroimaging, neurometabolic, neurophysiological and neurostimulation techniques, to detect brain-based covert markers of awareness. However, uni-modal approaches, consisting in employing just one of those techniques, are usually not sufficient to provide an exhaustive exploration of the neural underpinnings of residual awareness. This systematic review aimed at collecting the evidence from studies employing a multimodal approach, that is, combining more instruments to complement DoC diagnosis, prognosis and better investigating their neural correlates. Following the PRISMA guidelines, records from PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus were screened to select peer-review original articles in which a multi-modal approach was used for the assessment of adult patients with a diagnosis of DoC. Ninety-two observational studies and 32 case reports or case series met the inclusion criteria. Results highlighted a diagnostic and prognostic advantage of multi-modal approaches that involve electroencephalography-based (EEG-based) measurements together with neuroimaging or neurometabolic data or with neurostimulation. Multimodal assessment deepened the knowledge on the neural networks underlying consciousness, by showing correlations between the integrity of the default mode network and the different clinical diagnosis of DoC. However, except for studies using transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with electroencephalography, the integration of more than one technique in most of the cases occurs without an a priori-designed multi-modal diagnostic approach. Our review supports the feasibility and underlines the advantages of a multimodal approach for the diagnosis, prognosis and for the investigation of neural correlates of DoCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gallucci
- Ph.D. Program in Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- NeuroMi (Neuroscience Center), University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Erica Varoli
- Neurology Service, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad Alta Specializzazione (IRCCS ISMETT), Palermo, Italy
| | - Lilia Del Mauro
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriel Hassan
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Rovida
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Comanducci
- IRCSS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan, Italy
- Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Casarotto
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzina Lo Re
- Neurology Service, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad Alta Specializzazione (IRCCS ISMETT), Palermo, Italy
| | - Leonor J Romero Lauro
- NeuroMi (Neuroscience Center), University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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8
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Harris KA, Zhou Y, Jou S, Greenwald BD. Disorders of Consciousness Programs: Components, Organization, and Implementation. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2024; 35:65-77. [PMID: 37993194 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2023.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Rehabilitation of patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) presents unique challenges requiring comprehensive and specialized care. This article reviews the components, organization, and implementation of an inpatient DoC program under the framework of recent evidence-based practice guidelines and minimum competency recommendations. The evidence and clinical applications of these recommendations are elaborated upon with the goal of offering providers a reference to translate guidelines into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen A Harris
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute/Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 65 James Street, Edison, NJ 08820, USA.
| | - Yi Zhou
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute/Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 65 James Street, Edison, NJ 08820, USA
| | - Stacey Jou
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute/Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 65 James Street, Edison, NJ 08820, USA
| | - Brian D Greenwald
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute/Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, 65 James Street, Edison, NJ 08820, USA
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9
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Tangonan R, Lazaridis C. Evaluation and Management of Disorders of Consciousness in the Acute Care Setting. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2024; 35:79-92. [PMID: 37993195 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2023.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Acute disorders of consciousness (DOC) are impairments in arousal and awareness that occur within 28 days of an initial injury and can result from a variety of insults. These states range from coma, unresponsive wakefulness, covert consciousness, minimal consciousness, to confusional state. It is important to perform thorough, serial examinations with particular emphasis on the level of consciousness, brainstem reflexes, and motor responses. Evaluation of acute DOC includes laboratory tests, imaging, and electrophysiology testing. Prognostication in the acute phase of DOC must be done cautiously, using open, frequent communication with families, and by acknowledging significant multidimensional uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Tangonan
- Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Christos Lazaridis
- Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit, Department of Neurology, University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
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10
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Young MJ. Disorders of Consciousness Rehabilitation: Ethical Dimensions and Epistemic Dilemmas. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2024; 35:209-221. [PMID: 37993190 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Patients with disorders of consciousness who survive to discharge following severe acute brain injury may face profoundly complex medical, ethical, and psychosocial challenges during their courses of recovery and rehabilitation. Although issues encountered in caring for such patients during acute hospitalization have received substantial attention, ethical challenges that may arise in subacute and chronic phases have been underexplored. Shedding light on these issues, this article explores the landscape of normative issues in the course of treating and facilitating access to care for persons with disorders of consciousness during rehabilitation and examines potential implications for patients, clinicians, family members, and society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Young
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, 101 Merrimac Street, Suite 310, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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11
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Edlow BL, Boerwinkle VL, Annen J, Boly M, Gosseries O, Laureys S, Mukherjee P, Puybasset L, Stevens RD, Threlkeld ZD, Newcombe VFJ, Fernandez-Espejo D. Common Data Elements for Disorders of Consciousness: Recommendations from the Working Group on Neuroimaging. Neurocrit Care 2023; 39:611-617. [PMID: 37552410 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01794-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past 5 decades, advances in neuroimaging have yielded insights into the pathophysiologic mechanisms that cause disorders of consciousness (DoC) in patients with severe brain injuries. Structural, functional, metabolic, and perfusion imaging studies have revealed specific neuroanatomic regions, such as the brainstem tegmentum, thalamus, posterior cingulate cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, and occipital cortex, where lesions correlate with the current or future state of consciousness. Advanced imaging modalities, such as diffusion tensor imaging, resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and task-based fMRI, have been used to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and long-term prognosis, culminating in the endorsement of fMRI for the clinical evaluation of patients with DoC in the 2018 US (task-based fMRI) and 2020 European (task-based and resting-state fMRI) guidelines. As diverse neuroimaging techniques are increasingly used for patients with DoC in research and clinical settings, the need for a standardized approach to reporting results is clear. The success of future multicenter collaborations and international trials fundamentally depends on the implementation of a shared nomenclature and infrastructure. METHODS To address this need, the Neurocritical Care Society's Curing Coma Campaign convened an international panel of DoC neuroimaging experts to propose common data elements (CDEs) for data collection and reporting in this field. RESULTS We report the recommendations of this CDE development panel and disseminate CDEs to be used in neuroimaging studies of patients with DoC. CONCLUSIONS These CDEs will support progress in the field of DoC neuroimaging and facilitate international collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA.
| | - Varina L Boerwinkle
- Clinical Resting-State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Laboratory and Service, Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jitka Annen
- Coma Science Group, GIGA Consciousness, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Centre de Cerveau2, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Melanie Boly
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Wisconsin Institute for Sleep and Consciousness, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Olivia Gosseries
- Coma Science Group, GIGA Consciousness, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Centre de Cerveau2, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Steven Laureys
- Coma Science Group, GIGA Consciousness, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Centre de Cerveau2, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- CERVO Research Institute, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pratik Mukherjee
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Louis Puybasset
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Robert D Stevens
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, Radiology, and Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zachary D Threlkeld
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Davinia Fernandez-Espejo
- School of Psychology and Centre for Human Brain Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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12
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Birch J. Medical AI, inductive risk and the communication of uncertainty: the case of disorders of consciousness. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2023:jme-2023-109424. [PMID: 37979975 DOI: 10.1136/jme-2023-109424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Some patients, following brain injury, do not outwardly respond to spoken commands, yet show patterns of brain activity that indicate responsiveness. This is 'cognitive-motor dissociation' (CMD). Recent research has used machine learning to diagnose CMD from electroencephalogram recordings. These techniques have high false discovery rates, raising a serious problem of inductive risk. It is no solution to communicate the false discovery rates directly to the patient's family, because this information may confuse, alarm and mislead. Instead, we need a procedure for generating case-specific probabilistic assessments that can be communicated clearly. This article constructs a possible procedure with three key elements: (1) A shift from categorical 'responding or not' assessments to degrees of evidence; (2) The use of patient-centred priors to convert degrees of evidence to probabilistic assessments; and (3) The use of standardised probability yardsticks to convey those assessments as clearly as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Birch
- Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science, LSE, London, UK
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13
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Latronico N, Rasulo FA, Eikermann M, Piva S. Illness Weakness, Polyneuropathy and Myopathy: Diagnosis, treatment, and long-term outcomes. Crit Care 2023; 27:439. [PMID: 37957759 PMCID: PMC10644573 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-023-04676-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe weakness associated with critical illness (CIW) is common. This narrative review summarizes the latest scientific insights and proposes a guide for clinicians to optimize the diagnosis and management of the CIW during the various stages of the disease from the ICU to the community stage. MAIN BODY CIW arises as diffuse, symmetrical weakness after ICU admission, which is an important differentiating factor from other diseases causing non-symmetrical muscle weakness or paralysis. In patients with adequate cognitive function, CIW can be easily diagnosed at the bedside using manual muscle testing, which should be routinely conducted until ICU discharge. In patients with delirium or coma or those with prolonged, severe weakness, specific neurophysiological investigations and, in selected cases, muscle biopsy are recommended. With these exams, CIW can be differentiated into critical illness polyneuropathy or myopathy, which often coexist. On the general ward, CIW is seen in patients with prolonged previous ICU treatment, or in those developing a new sepsis. Respiratory muscle weakness can cause neuromuscular respiratory failure, which needs prompt recognition and rapid treatment to avoid life-threatening situations. Active rehabilitation should be reassessed and tailored to the new patient's condition to reduce the risk of disease progression. CIW is associated with long-term physical, cognitive and mental impairments, which emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary model of care. Follow-up clinics for patients surviving critical illness may serve this purpose by providing direct clinical support to patients, managing referrals to other specialists and general practitioners, and serving as a platform for research to describe the natural history of post-intensive care syndrome and to identify new therapeutic interventions. This surveillance should include an assessment of the activities of daily living, mood, and functional mobility. Finally, nutritional status should be longitudinally assessed in all ICU survivors and incorporated into a patient-centered nutritional approach guided by a dietician. CONCLUSIONS Early ICU mobilization combined with the best evidence-based ICU practices can effectively reduce short-term weakness. Multi-professional collaborations are needed to guarantee a multi-dimensional evaluation and unitary community care programs for survivors of critical illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Latronico
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
- Department of Emergency, ASST Spedali Civili University Hospital, Piazzale Ospedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
- "Alessandra Bono" Interdepartmental University Research Center On Long-Term Outcome (LOTO) in Critical Illness Survivors, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Frank A Rasulo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Emergency, ASST Spedali Civili University Hospital, Piazzale Ospedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- "Alessandra Bono" Interdepartmental University Research Center On Long-Term Outcome (LOTO) in Critical Illness Survivors, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Matthias Eikermann
- Department of Anesthesiology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Simone Piva
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Emergency, ASST Spedali Civili University Hospital, Piazzale Ospedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
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14
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Boerwinkle VL, Gillette K, Rubinos CA, Broman-Fulks J, Aseem F, DeHoff GK, Arhin M, Cediel E, Strohm T. Functional MRI for Acute Covert Consciousness: Emerging Data and Implementation Case Series. Semin Neurol 2023; 43:712-734. [PMID: 37788679 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1775845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Although research studies have begun to demonstrate relationships between disorders of consciousness and brain network biomarkers, there are limited data on the practical aspects of obtaining such network biomarkers to potentially guide care. As the state of knowledge continues to evolve, guidelines from professional societies such as the American and European Academies of Neurology and many experts have advocated that the risk-benefit ratio for the assessment of network biomarkers has begun to favor their application toward potentially detecting covert consciousness. Given the lack of detailed operationalization guidance and the context of the ethical implications, herein we offer a roadmap based on local institutional experience with the implementation of functional MRI in the neonatal, pediatric, and adult intensive care units of our local government-supported health system. We provide a case-based demonstrative approach intended to review the current literature and to assist with the initiation of such services at other facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varina L Boerwinkle
- Division of Child Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Kirsten Gillette
- Division of Child Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Clio A Rubinos
- Division of Neurocritical Care, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jordan Broman-Fulks
- Division of Child Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Fazila Aseem
- Division of Neurocritical Care, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Grace K DeHoff
- Division of Neurocritical Care, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Martin Arhin
- Division of Child Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Emilio Cediel
- Division of Child Neurology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Tamara Strohm
- Division of Neurocritical Care, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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15
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Bernat JL. Challenges to Brain Death in Revising the Uniform Determination of Death Act: The UDDA Revision Series. Neurology 2023; 101:30-37. [PMID: 37400259 PMCID: PMC10351312 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- James L Bernat
- From the Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH.
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16
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Edlow BL, Fecchio M, Bodien YG, Comanducci A, Rosanova M, Casarotto S, Young MJ, Li J, Dougherty DD, Koch C, Tononi G, Massimini M, Boly M. Measuring Consciousness in the Intensive Care Unit. Neurocrit Care 2023; 38:584-590. [PMID: 37029315 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01706-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Early reemergence of consciousness predicts long-term functional recovery for patients with severe brain injury. However, tools to reliably detect consciousness in the intensive care unit are lacking. Transcranial magnetic stimulation electroencephalography has the potential to detect consciousness in the intensive care unit, predict recovery, and prevent premature withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA.
| | - Matteo Fecchio
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yelena G Bodien
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Angela Comanducci
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Milan, Italy
- Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Rosanova
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Casarotto
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Michael J Young
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jian Li
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Darin D Dougherty
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christof Koch
- MindScope Program, Allen Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Tiny Blue Dot Foundation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Giulio Tononi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Marcello Massimini
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Melanie Boly
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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17
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O'Donnell JC, Browne KD, Kvint S, Makaron L, Grovola MR, Karandikar S, Kilbaugh TJ, Cullen DK, Petrov D. Multimodal Neuromonitoring and Neurocritical Care in Swine to Enhance Translational Relevance in Brain Trauma Research. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051336. [PMID: 37239007 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurocritical care significantly impacts outcomes after moderate-to-severe acquired brain injury, but it is rarely applied in preclinical studies. We created a comprehensive neurointensive care unit (neuroICU) for use in swine to account for the influence of neurocritical care, collect clinically relevant monitoring data, and create a paradigm that is capable of validating therapeutics/diagnostics in the unique neurocritical care space. Our multidisciplinary team of neuroscientists, neurointensivists, and veterinarians adapted/optimized the clinical neuroICU (e.g., multimodal neuromonitoring) and critical care pathways (e.g., managing cerebral perfusion pressure with sedation, ventilation, and hypertonic saline) for use in swine. Moreover, this neurocritical care paradigm enabled the first demonstration of an extended preclinical study period for moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury with coma beyond 8 h. There are many similarities with humans that make swine an ideal model species for brain injury studies, including a large brain mass, gyrencephalic cortex, high white matter volume, and topography of basal cisterns, amongst other critical factors. Here we describe the neurocritical care techniques we developed and the medical management of swine following subarachnoid hemorrhage and traumatic brain injury with coma. Incorporating neurocritical care in swine studies will reduce the translational gap for therapeutics and diagnostics specifically tailored for moderate-to-severe acquired brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C O'Donnell
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kevin D Browne
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Svetlana Kvint
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Leah Makaron
- University Laboratory Animal Resources, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael R Grovola
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Saarang Karandikar
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Todd J Kilbaugh
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - D Kacy Cullen
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Dmitriy Petrov
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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18
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Norton L, Kazazian K, Gofton T, Debicki DB, Fernandez-Espejo D, Peelle JE, Al Thenayan E, Young GB, Owen AM. Functional Neuroimaging as an Assessment Tool in Critically Ill Patients. Ann Neurol 2023; 93:131-141. [PMID: 36222470 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Little is known about residual cognitive function in the earliest stages of serious brain injury. Functional neuroimaging has yielded valuable diagnostic and prognostic information in chronic disorders of consciousness, such as the vegetative state (also termed unresponsive wakefulness syndrome). The objective of the current study was to determine if functional neuroimaging could be efficacious in the assessment of cognitive function in acute disorders of consciousness, such as coma, where decisions about the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies are often made. METHODS A hierarchical functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) approach assessed sound perception, speech perception, language comprehension, and covert command following in 17 critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). RESULTS Preserved auditory function was observed in 15 patients (88%), whereas 5 (29%) also had preserved higher-order language comprehension. Notably, one patient could willfully modulate his brain activity when instructed to do so, suggesting a level of covert conscious awareness that was entirely inconsistent with his clinical diagnosis at the time of the scan. Across patients, a positive relationship was also observed between fMRI responsivity and the level of functional recovery, such that patients with the greatest functional recovery had neural responses most similar to those observed in healthy control participants. INTERPRETATION These results suggest that fMRI may provide important diagnostic and prognostic information beyond standard clinical assessment in acutely unresponsive patients, which may aid discussions surrounding the continuation or removal of life-sustaining therapies during the early post-injury period. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:131-141.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loretta Norton
- Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychology, King's University College at Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karnig Kazazian
- Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Teneille Gofton
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Derek B Debicki
- Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Davinia Fernandez-Espejo
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK.,Centre for Human Brain Health and School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jonathan E Peelle
- Center for Cognitive and Brain Health, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eyad Al Thenayan
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - G Bryan Young
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrian M Owen
- Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and Department of Psychology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Cappucci SP, Smith WS, Schwartzstein R, White DB, Mitchell SL, Fehnel CR. End-Of-Life Care in the Potential Donor after Circulatory Death: A Systematic Review. Neurohospitalist 2023; 13:61-68. [PMID: 36531837 PMCID: PMC9755608 DOI: 10.1177/19418744221123194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Donation after circulatory death (DCD) is becoming increasingly common, yet little is known about the way potential donors receive end-of-life care. Purpose The aims of this systematic review are to describe the current practice in end-of-life care for potential donors and identify metrics that are being used to assess discomfort among these patients. Research design and Study Sample This review encompasses published literature between June 1, 2000 and June 31, 2020 of end-of-life care received by potential DCD patients. The population of interest was defined as patients eligible for Maastracht classification III donation after circulatory death for a solid organ transplantation. Outcomes examined included: analgesic or palliative protocols, and surrogates of discomfort (eg dyspnea, agitation). Results Among 141 unique articles, 27 studies were included for full review. The primary reason for exclusion was lack of protocol description, or lack of reporting on analgesic medications. No primary research studies specifically examined distress in the DCD eligible population. Numerous professional guidelines were identified. Surveys of critical care practitioners identified concerns regarding the impact of symptom management on hastening the dying process in the DCD population as a potential barrier to end-of-life palliative treatment. Conclusions There is a paucity of empirical evidence for end-of-life symptom assessment and management for DCD patients. Key evidence gaps identified for DCD include the need for: i) a multidisciplinary structure of treatment teams and preferred environment for DCD, ii) objective tools for monitoring of distress in this patient population, and iii) evidence guiding the administration of analgesic medications following withdrawal of life sustaining therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie P Cappucci
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wade S Smith
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Douglas B White
- Department of Critical Care, University of PittsburghSchool of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Susan L Mitchell
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Hebrew Senior Life, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Corey R Fehnel
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Hebrew Senior Life, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Boston, MA, USA
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20
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Fins JJ. The Unintended Consequences of Chile’s Neurorights Constitutional Reform: Moving beyond Negative Rights to Capabilities. NEUROETHICS-NETH 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12152-022-09504-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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21
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Spataro R, La Bella V. The role of ethical attitudes on mortality of patients with disorders of consciousness. Eur J Neurol 2022; 29:3473-3474. [DOI: 10.1111/ene.15510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Spataro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo Palermo Italy
- ALS Clinical Research Center University of Palermo Palermo Italy
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22
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Curley WH, Comanducci A, Fecchio M. Conventional and Investigational Approaches Leveraging Clinical EEG for Prognosis in Acute Disorders of Consciousness. Semin Neurol 2022; 42:309-324. [PMID: 36100227 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1755220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Prediction of recovery of consciousness after severe brain injury is difficult and limited by a lack of reliable, standardized biomarkers. Multiple approaches for analysis of clinical electroencephalography (EEG) that shed light on prognosis in acute severe brain injury have emerged in recent years. These approaches fall into two major categories: conventional characterization of EEG background and quantitative measurement of resting state or stimulus-induced EEG activity. Additionally, a small number of studies have associated the presence of electrophysiologic sleep features with prognosis in the acute phase of severe brain injury. In this review, we focus on approaches for the analysis of clinical EEG that have prognostic significance and that could be readily implemented with minimal additional equipment in clinical settings, such as intensive care and intensive rehabilitation units, for patients with acute disorders of consciousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Curley
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Angela Comanducci
- IRCSS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi ONLUS, Milan, Italy.,Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Fecchio
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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23
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Grimm T, Groß M, Nater UM, Summ O, Kreutz G. Psychophysiological Effects of Biographical Interventions in People With Unresponsive Wakefulness Syndrome and Minimally Conscious State. Front Neurol 2022; 13:788588. [PMID: 35599728 PMCID: PMC9120535 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.788588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Various music interventions can evoke favorable behavioral responses or physiological reactions in people with disorders of consciousness (DOC), such as coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS), and minimally conscious state (MCS). However, it appears that no study thus far has investigated the effects of music on the endocrine system of people with DOC. Objective This explorative study aimed to investigate the effects of biographical music and biographical language on the physiological and endocrine systems of people with UWS and MCS. Method A cohort of 20 people with DOC (10 women, 10 men; age range 19–77) received 20 min of biographical music and biographical language. Before and afterward, they were exposed to silence. Physiological and hormonal measurements were conducted before, during, and after the interventions. Results Paired t-tests showed a significant decrease of salivary cortisol in the condition with biographical language interventions. Conclusion Biographical interventions can modulate reactions in the endocrine system in people with DOC. Further studies are needed to establish whether and how individuals living with DOC show psychoneuroendocrine responses to music and other arts-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Grimm
- Public Health Department of the City of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Department of Music, Faculty of Linguistics and Cultural Studies, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Teresa Grimm
| | - Martin Groß
- Department of Neurological Intensive Care and Rehabilitation, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Research Network on Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine Oldenburg, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Urs M. Nater
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Oliver Summ
- Department of Neurological Intensive Care and Rehabilitation, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Gunter Kreutz
- Department of Music, Faculty of Linguistics and Cultural Studies, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
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24
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25
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FINS JOSEPHJ. THE JEREMIAH METZGER LECTURE: DISORDERS OF CONSCIOUSNESS AND THE NORMATIVE UNCERTAINTY OF AN EMERGING NOSOLOGY. TRANSACTIONS OF THE AMERICAN CLINICAL AND CLIMATOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 2022; 131:235-269. [PMID: 32675864 PMCID: PMC7358498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
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26
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Young MJ, Bodien YG, Edlow BL. Ethical Considerations in Clinical Trials for Disorders of Consciousness. Brain Sci 2022; 12:211. [PMID: 35203974 PMCID: PMC8870384 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
As the clinical trial landscape for patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) expands, consideration of associated ethical challenges and opportunities is of ever-increasing importance. Responsible conduct of research in the vulnerable population of persons with DoC, including those with coma, vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (VS/UWS), minimally conscious state (MCS), covert cortical processing (CCP), and cognitive motor dissociation (CMD), demands proactive deliberation of unique ethical issues that may arise and the adoption of robust protections to safeguard patients, surrogates, and other key stakeholders. Here we identify and critically evaluate four central categories of ethical considerations in clinical trials involving participants with DoC: (1) autonomy, respect for persons and informed consent of individuals with liminal consciousness; (2) balancing unknown benefits and risks, especially considering the epistemological gap between behavior and consciousness that complicates ordinary ascription of subjective states; (3) disclosure to surrogates and clinical teams of investigational results pertaining to consciousness; and (4) justice considerations, including equitable access to clinical trial enrollment across communities and geographies. We outline guiding principles and research opportunities for clinicians, neuroethicists, and researchers engaged in DoC clinical trials to advance ethical study design and deployment in this complex yet crucial area of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Young
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (Y.G.B.); (B.L.E.)
| | - Yelena G. Bodien
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (Y.G.B.); (B.L.E.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02114, USA
| | - Brian L. Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (Y.G.B.); (B.L.E.)
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02114, USA
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27
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Electroencephalography (EEG) findings following cardiovascular collapse in death are uncertain. We aimed to characterize EEG changes immediately preceding and following cardiac death. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed EEGs of patients who died from cardiac arrest while undergoing standard EEG monitoring in an intensive care unit. Patients with brain death preceding cardiac death were excluded. Three events during fatal cardiovascular failure were investigated: (1) last recorded QRS complex on electrocardiogram (QRS0), (2) cessation of cerebral blood flow (CBF0) estimated as the time that blood pressure and heart rate dropped below set thresholds, and (3) electrocerebral silence on EEG (EEG0). We evaluated EEG spectral power, coherence, and permutation entropy at these time points. RESULTS Among 19 patients who died while undergoing EEG monitoring, seven (37%) had a comfort-measures-only status and 18 (95%) had a do-not-resuscitate status in place at the time of death. EEG0 occurred at the time of QRS0 in five patients and after QRS0 in two patients (cohort median - 2.0, interquartile range - 8.0 to 0.0), whereas EEG0 was seen at the time of CBF0 in six patients and following CBF0 in 11 patients (cohort median 2.0 min, interquartile range - 1.5 to 6.0). After CBF0, full-spectrum log power (p < 0.001) and coherence (p < 0.001) decreased on EEG, whereas delta (p = 0.007) and theta (p < 0.001) permutation entropy increased. CONCLUSIONS Rarely may patients have transient electrocerebral activity following the last recorded QRS (less than 5 min) and estimated cessation of cerebral blood flow. These results may have implications for discussions around cardiopulmonary resuscitation and organ donation.
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28
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Enciso-Olivera CO, Ordóñez-Rubiano EG, Casanova-Libreros R, Rivera D, Zarate-Ardila CJ, Rudas J, Pulido C, Gómez F, Martínez D, Guerrero N, Hurtado MA, Aguilera-Bustos N, Hernández-Torres CP, Hernandez J, Marín-Muñoz JH. Structural and functional connectivity of the ascending arousal network for prediction of outcome in patients with acute disorders of consciousness. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22952. [PMID: 34824383 PMCID: PMC8617304 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98506-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
To determine the role of early acquisition of blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signals and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for analysis of the connectivity of the ascending arousal network (AAN) in predicting neurological outcomes after acute traumatic brain injury (TBI), cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA), or stroke. A prospective analysis of 50 comatose patients was performed during their ICU stay. Image processing was conducted to assess structural and functional connectivity of the AAN. Outcomes were evaluated after 3 and 6 months. Nineteen patients (38%) had stroke, 18 (36%) CPA, and 13 (26%) TBI. Twenty-three patients were comatose (44%), 11 were in a minimally conscious state (20%), and 16 had unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (32%). Univariate analysis demonstrated that measurements of diffusivity, functional connectivity, and numbers of fibers in the gray matter, white matter, whole brain, midbrain reticular formation, and pontis oralis nucleus may serve as predictive biomarkers of outcome depending on the diagnosis. Multivariate analysis demonstrated a correlation of the predicted value and the real outcome for each separate diagnosis and for all the etiologies together. Findings suggest that the above imaging biomarkers may have a predictive role for the outcome of comatose patients after acute TBI, CPA, or stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar O Enciso-Olivera
- Department of Critical Care and Intensive Care Unit, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Edgar G Ordóñez-Rubiano
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Rosángela Casanova-Libreros
- Division of Clinical Research, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José, Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Diana Rivera
- Division of Clinical Research, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José, Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carol J Zarate-Ardila
- Division of Clinical Research, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José, Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Jorge Rudas
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Cristian Pulido
- Department of Mathematics, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Francisco Gómez
- Department of Computer Science, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Darwin Martínez
- Department of Computer Science, Universidad Central, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Natalia Guerrero
- Department of Radiology, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Mayra A Hurtado
- Department of Critical Care and Intensive Care Unit, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Natalia Aguilera-Bustos
- Division of Clinical Research, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital de San José, Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Clara P Hernández-Torres
- Department of Psychology, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - José Hernandez
- Department of Neurology, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Jorge H Marín-Muñoz
- Department of Radiology, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de La Salud (FUCS), Hospital Infantil Universitario de San José, Bogotá, Colombia. .,Innovation and Research Division, Imaging Experts and Healthcare Services (ImexHS), Street 92 # 11-51, Of 202, Bogotá, Colombia.
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29
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Edlow BL. Early Rehabilitation for Patients with Disorders of Consciousness after Severe COVID-19. Neurocrit Care 2021; 36:341-343. [PMID: 34617252 PMCID: PMC8494457 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-021-01361-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 175 Cambridge Street - Suite 300, Boston, MA, USA. .,Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA.
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30
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Fainberg N, Mataya L, Kirschen M, Morrison W. Pediatric brain death certification: a narrative review. Transl Pediatr 2021; 10:2738-2748. [PMID: 34765497 PMCID: PMC8578760 DOI: 10.21037/tp-20-350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In the five decades since its inception, brain death has become an accepted medical and legal concept throughout most of the world. There was initial reluctance to apply brain death criteria to children as they are believed more likely to regain neurologic function following injury. In spite of early trepidation, criteria for pediatric brain death certification were first proposed in 1987 by a multidisciplinary committee comprised of experts in the medical and legal communities. Protocols have since been developed to standardize brain death determination, but there remains substantial variability in practice throughout the world. In addition, brain death remains a topic of considerable ethical, philosophical, and legal controversy, and is often misrepresented in the media. In the present article, we discuss the history of brain death and the guidelines for its determination. We provide an overview of past and present challenges to its concept and diagnosis from biophilosophical, ethical and legal perspectives, and highlight differences between adult and pediatric brain death determination. We conclude by anticipating future directions for brain death as related to the emergence of new technologies. It is our position that providers should endorse the criteria for brain death diagnosis in children as proposed by the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and Child Neurology Society (CNS), in order to prevent controversy and subjectivity surrounding what constitutes life versus death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Fainberg
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Leslie Mataya
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Matthew Kirschen
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Wynne Morrison
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, USA
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31
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Young MJ, Bodien YG, Giacino JT, Fins JJ, Truog RD, Hochberg LR, Edlow BL. The neuroethics of disorders of consciousness: a brief history of evolving ideas. Brain 2021; 144:3291-3310. [PMID: 34347037 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroethical questions raised by recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of consciousness are rapidly expanding, increasingly relevant, and yet underexplored. The aim of this thematic review is to provide a clinically applicable framework for understanding the current taxonomy of disorders of consciousness and to propose an approach to identifying and critically evaluating actionable neuroethical issues that are frequently encountered in research and clinical care for this vulnerable population. Increased awareness of these issues and clarity about opportunities for optimizing ethically-responsible care in this domain are especially timely given recent surges in critically ill patients with unusually prolonged disorders of consciousness associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) around the world. We begin with an overview of the field of neuroethics: what it is, its history and evolution in the context of biomedical ethics at large. We then explore nomenclature used in disorders of consciousness, covering categories proposed by the American Academy of Neurology, the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, and the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, including definitions of terms such as coma, the vegetative state, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, minimally conscious state, covert consciousness, and the confusional state. We discuss why these definitions matter, and why there has been such evolution in this nosology over the years, from Jennett and Plum in 1972 to the Multi-Society Task Force in 1994, the Aspen Working Group in 2002 and up until the 2018 American and 2020 European Disorders of Consciousness guidelines. We then move to a discussion of clinical aspects of disorders of consciousness, the natural history of recovery, and ethical issues that arise within the context of caring for persons with disorders of consciousness. We conclude with a discussion of key challenges associated with assessing residual consciousness in disorders of consciousness, potential solutions and future directions, including integration of crucial disability rights perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Young
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114,USA.,Edmond J. Safra Center for Ethics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Yelena G Bodien
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114,USA.,Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | | | - Joseph J Fins
- Division of Medical Ethics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Robert D Truog
- Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Leigh R Hochberg
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114,USA.,School of Engineering and Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA.,VA RR&D Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, RI 02908, USA
| | - Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114,USA.,Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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32
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Lippe M, Eyer JC, Rosa WE, McKinney R, Patterson B, Matteo RA, Townsend H, Halli-Tierney A. Caring for an Unconscious Transgender Patient at the End of Life: Ethical Considerations and Implications. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2021; 23:300-308. [PMID: 33901059 PMCID: PMC8568014 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Individuals who identify as transgender (trans) or other gender-diverse identities are highly marginalized populations within the United States health care system. Transgender individuals experience a broad range of health disparities leading to devastating health outcomes. Experiences with discrimination and biased care often result in a lack of trust in providers and reduced care seeking, yet providers frequently rely on communication with trans patients to build competence. Consequently, when a trans patient has restricted communication, whether due to biological or psychological reasons, their care can be further disrupted. The nursing code of ethics compels the provision of competent care to all patients, regardless of demographics or gender identity, including individuals with serious illness and injury. This article describes an approach to the provision of affirmative, trans-inclusive care in a palliative nursing context that integrates cultural humility and self-reflection into an established patient care framework. The approach is then applied to identify ethical dilemmas present in the case of a trans patient who arrived at a hospital in an unconscious state following serious injury. Nurses' use of the ethical approach when caring for seriously ill trans patients would represent important progress toward fostering a health care system that provides affirmative, trans-inclusive care.
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33
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Research Needs for Prognostic Modeling and Trajectory Analysis in Patients with Disorders of Consciousness. Neurocrit Care 2021; 35:55-67. [PMID: 34236623 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-021-01289-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current state of the science regarding the care and prognosis of patients with disorders of consciousness is limited. Scientific advances are needed to improve the accuracy, relevance, and approach to prognostication, thereby providing the foundation to develop meaningful and effective interventions. METHODS To address this need, an interdisciplinary expert panel was created as part of the Coma Science Working Group of the Neurocritical Care Society Curing Coma Campaign. RESULTS The panel performed a gap analysis which identified seven research needs for prognostic modeling and trajectory analysis ("recovery science") in patients with disorders of consciousness: (1) to define the variables that predict outcomes; (2) to define meaningful intermediate outcomes at specific time points for different endotypes; (3) to describe recovery trajectories in the absence of limitations to care; (4) to harness big data and develop analytic methods to prognosticate more accurately; (5) to identify key elements and processes for communicating prognostic uncertainty over time; (6) to identify health care delivery models that facilitate recovery and recovery science; and (7) to advocate for changes in the health care delivery system needed to advance recovery science and implement already-known best practices. CONCLUSION This report summarizes the current research available to inform the proposed research needs, articulates key elements within each area, and discusses the goals and advances in recovery science and care anticipated by successfully addressing these needs.
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34
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Claassen J, Akbari Y, Alexander S, Bader MK, Bell K, Bleck TP, Boly M, Brown J, Chou SHY, Diringer MN, Edlow BL, Foreman B, Giacino JT, Gosseries O, Green T, Greer DM, Hanley DF, Hartings JA, Helbok R, Hemphill JC, Hinson HE, Hirsch K, Human T, James ML, Ko N, Kondziella D, Livesay S, Madden LK, Mainali S, Mayer SA, McCredie V, McNett MM, Meyfroidt G, Monti MM, Muehlschlegel S, Murthy S, Nyquist P, Olson DM, Provencio JJ, Rosenthal E, Sampaio Silva G, Sarasso S, Schiff ND, Sharshar T, Shutter L, Stevens RD, Vespa P, Videtta W, Wagner A, Ziai W, Whyte J, Zink E, Suarez JI. Proceedings of the First Curing Coma Campaign NIH Symposium: Challenging the Future of Research for Coma and Disorders of Consciousness. Neurocrit Care 2021; 35:4-23. [PMID: 34236619 PMCID: PMC8264966 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-021-01260-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Coma and disorders of consciousness (DoC) are highly prevalent and constitute a burden for patients, families, and society worldwide. As part of the Curing Coma Campaign, the Neurocritical Care Society partnered with the National Institutes of Health to organize a symposium bringing together experts from all over the world to develop research targets for DoC. The conference was structured along six domains: (1) defining endotype/phenotypes, (2) biomarkers, (3) proof-of-concept clinical trials, (4) neuroprognostication, (5) long-term recovery, and (6) large datasets. This proceedings paper presents actionable research targets based on the presentations and discussions that occurred at the conference. We summarize the background, main research gaps, overall goals, the panel discussion of the approach, limitations and challenges, and deliverables that were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Claassen
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, 177 Fort Washington Avenue, MHB 8 Center, Room 300, New York City, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Yama Akbari
- Departments of Neurology, Neurological Surgery, and Anatomy & Neurobiology and Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sheila Alexander
- Acute and Tertiary Care, School of Nursing and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Kathleen Bell
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Thomas P Bleck
- Davee Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Melanie Boly
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jeremy Brown
- Office of Emergency Care Research, Division of Clinical Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sherry H-Y Chou
- Departments of Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael N Diringer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Brian L Edlow
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brandon Foreman
- Departments of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joseph T Giacino
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Olivia Gosseries
- GIGA Consciousness After Coma Science Group, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium
| | - Theresa Green
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD, Australia
| | - David M Greer
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel F Hanley
- Division of Brain Injury Outcomes, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jed A Hartings
- Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Raimund Helbok
- Neurocritical Care Unit, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - J Claude Hemphill
- Department of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - H E Hinson
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Karen Hirsch
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Theresa Human
- Department of Pharmacy, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael L James
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Neurology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nerissa Ko
- Department of Neurology, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Kondziella
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sarah Livesay
- College of Nursing, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lori K Madden
- Center for Nursing Science, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Shraddha Mainali
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Stephan A Mayer
- Department of Neurology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Victoria McCredie
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, Department of Respirology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Molly M McNett
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Geert Meyfroidt
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven and University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Martin M Monti
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Psychology, Brain Injury Research Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Susanne Muehlschlegel
- Departments of Neurology, Anesthesiology/Critical Care, and Surgery, Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Santosh Murthy
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Paul Nyquist
- Division of Neurosciences Critical Care, Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - DaiWai M Olson
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - J Javier Provencio
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Eric Rosenthal
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gisele Sampaio Silva
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital and Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Simone Sarasso
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "L. Sacco", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicholas D Schiff
- Department of Neurology and Brain Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Tarek Sharshar
- Department of Intensive Care, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Lori Shutter
- Departments of Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robert D Stevens
- Division of Neurosciences Critical Care, Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Paul Vespa
- Departments of Neurosurgery and Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Walter Videtta
- National Hospital Alejandro Posadas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Amy Wagner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wendy Ziai
- Division of Neurosciences Critical Care, Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John Whyte
- Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute, Elkins Park, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Zink
- Division of Neurosciences Critical Care, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jose I Suarez
- Division of Neurosciences Critical Care, Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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35
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Kim
- Division of Neurocritical Care, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kevin N Sheth
- Division of Neurocritical Care, Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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36
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Edlow BL, Claassen J, Schiff ND, Greer DM. Recovery from disorders of consciousness: mechanisms, prognosis and emerging therapies. Nat Rev Neurol 2021; 17:135-156. [PMID: 33318675 PMCID: PMC7734616 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-020-00428-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Substantial progress has been made over the past two decades in detecting, predicting and promoting recovery of consciousness in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) caused by severe brain injuries. Advanced neuroimaging and electrophysiological techniques have revealed new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying recovery of consciousness and have enabled the identification of preserved brain networks in patients who seem unresponsive, thus raising hope for more accurate diagnosis and prognosis. Emerging evidence suggests that covert consciousness, or cognitive motor dissociation (CMD), is present in up to 15-20% of patients with DoC and that detection of CMD in the intensive care unit can predict functional recovery at 1 year post injury. Although fundamental questions remain about which patients with DoC have the potential for recovery, novel pharmacological and electrophysiological therapies have shown the potential to reactivate injured neural networks and promote re-emergence of consciousness. In this Review, we focus on mechanisms of recovery from DoC in the acute and subacute-to-chronic stages, and we discuss recent progress in detecting and predicting recovery of consciousness. We also describe the developments in pharmacological and electrophysiological therapies that are creating new opportunities to improve the lives of patients with DoC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Jan Claassen
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicholas D Schiff
- Feil Family Brain Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - David M Greer
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
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37
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Edlow BL, Naccache L. Unmasking Covert Language Processing in the Intensive Care Unit with Electroencephalography. Ann Neurol 2021; 89:643-645. [PMID: 33491250 PMCID: PMC8048541 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.,Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA
| | - Lionel Naccache
- PICNIC Lab Team, INSERM, U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Faculté de Médecine de Sorbonne Université, UMR S 1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,APHP, Departments of Neurology and of Clinical Neurophysiology, Hôpital de la Salpêtriere, Paris, France
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38
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Cortical Function in Acute Severe Traumatic Brain Injury and at Recovery: A Longitudinal fMRI Case Study. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10090604. [PMID: 32899145 PMCID: PMC7563151 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10090604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences in the functional integrity of the brain from acute severe brain injury to subsequent recovery of consciousness have not been well documented. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) may elucidate this issue as it allows for the objective measurement of brain function both at rest and in response to stimuli. Here, we report the cortical function of a patient with a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a critically ill state and at subsequent functional recovery 9-months post injury. A series of fMRI paradigms were employed to assess sound and speech perception, command following, and resting state connectivity. The patient retained sound perception and speech perception acutely, as indexed by his fMRI responses. Command following was absent acutely, but was present at recovery. Increases in functional connectivity across multiple resting state networks were observed at recovery. We demonstrate the clinical utility of fMRI in assessing cortical function in a patient with severe TBI. We suggest that hallmarks of the recovery of consciousness are associated with neural activity to higher-order cognitive tasks and increased resting state connectivity.
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39
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From Awareness to Prognosis: Ethical Implications of Uncovering Hidden Awareness in Behaviorally Nonresponsive Patients. Camb Q Healthc Ethics 2020; 28:616-631. [PMID: 31526429 DOI: 10.1017/s0963180119000550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Long-term patient outcomes after severe brain injury are highly variable, and reliable prognostic indicators are urgently needed to guide treatment decisions. Functional neuroimaging is a highly sensitive method of uncovering covert cognition and awareness in patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness, and there has been increased interest in using it as a research tool in acutely brain injured patients. When covert awareness is detected in a research context, this may impact surrogate decisionmaking-including decisions about life-sustaining treatment-even though the prognostic value of covert consciousness is currently unknown. This paper provides guidance to clinicians and families in incorporating individual research results of unknown prognostic value into surrogate decisionmaking, focusing on three potential issues: (1) Surrogate decisionmakers may misinterpret results; (2) Results may create false hope about the prospects of recovery; (3) There may be disagreement about the meaningfulness or relevance of results, and appropriateness of continued care.
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40
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Young MJ. Compassionate Care for the Unconscious and Incapacitated. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2020; 20:55-57. [PMID: 31990255 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2019.1701734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
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41
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42
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Edlow BL. Covert Consciousness: Searching for Volitional Brain Activity in the Unresponsive. Curr Biol 2019; 28:R1345-R1348. [PMID: 30513331 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2018.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Consciousness may evade detection by bedside behavioral examination. New research suggests that an electrophysiologic screening tool can identify people with severe brain injuries who are likely to be covertly conscious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L Edlow
- Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital, 175 Cambridge Street - Suite 300, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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43
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Giacino JT, Edlow BL. Covert Consciousness in the Intensive Care Unit. Trends Neurosci 2019; 42:844-847. [PMID: 31514975 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2019.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Claassen et al. performed task-based electroencephalography (EEG) in patients with disorders of consciousness in the intensive care unit (ICU) and found that covert consciousness detected by EEG is associated with better long-term outcomes. The diagnostic and prognostic uncertainty raised by these findings lead to pressing ethical questions concerning clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T Giacino
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, 300 First Ave, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Center for Bioethics, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Brian L Edlow
- Department of Neurology, Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, Massachusetts General Hospital, 175 Cambridge Street - Suite 300, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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44
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Zasler ND, Aloisi M, Contrada M, Formisano R. Disorders of consciousness terminology: history, evolution and future directions. Brain Inj 2019; 33:1684-1689. [DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2019.1656821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan D. Zasler
- Concussion Care Centre of Virginia, LTD; Tree of Life Services, Inc., Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Abstract
Abstract:This paper, presented as the 2019 Cambridge Quarterly Neuroethics Network Charcot Lecture, traces the nosology of disorders of consciousness in light of 2018 practice guidelines promulgated by the American Academy of Neurology, the American College of Rehabilitation Medicine and the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research. By exploring the ancient origins of Jennett and Plum’s persistent vegetative state and subsequent refinements in the classification of disorders of consciousness—epitomized by the minimally conscious state, cognitive motor dissociation, and the recently described chronic vegetative state—the author argues that there is a counter-narrative to the one linking these conditions to the right to die. Instead, there is a more nuanced schema distinguishing futility from utility, informed by technical advances now able to identify covert consciousness contemplated by Jennett and Plum. Their prescience foreshadows recent developments in the disorders of consciousness literature yielding a layered legacy with implications for society’s normative and legal obligations to these patients.
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