Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in devastating neurologic consequences for patients. Primary injury occurs on impact whereas secondary injury develops as a result of an ensuing inflammatory cascade. This leads to cerebral edema, intracranial hypertension, and consequent cerebral hypoperfusion. Induced hypothermia has long been known to have predictable effects on neurologic function. Hypothermia reduces cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption and the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. In fact, hypothermia has been found to be more neuroprotective than barbiturates in decreasing neurologic oxygen demand. Trieu et al offer a review of our current understanding of hypothermia in the context of TBI as is summarized in this infographic. The reader is strongly encouraged to review the cited article for an in-depth understanding of the concepts summarized in this infographic.

1. Trieu C, Rajagopalan S, Kofke WA, Cruz Navarro J. Overview of hypothermia, its role in neuroprotection, and the application of prophylactic hypothermia in traumatic brain injury. Anesth Analg. 2023;137:953–962.