Neonatal Therapeutic Hypothermia

Sakr M, Shah M, Balasundaram P. Neonatal Therapeutic Hypothermia. [Updated 2024 Feb 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-.

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy among neonates is a significant cause of infant mortality and neurodevelopmental deficits. It is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain at birth. It is evident from many systematic reviews that therapeutic hypothermia is beneficial in neonates with moderate to severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Many unanswered questions regarding indications, target timing, and appropriate populations exist. There are also critical pathophysiological concepts that need to be understood. This activity reviews therapeutic hypothermia’s indications, preparation, technique, and complications. Also, it highlights the role of the interprofessional team in evaluating and treating neonates under therapeutic hypothermia.

Clinicians can expect to gain the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions regarding the use of therapeutic hypothermia in neonatal care. Furthermore, this activity will address crucial unanswered questions surrounding therapeutic hypothermia, including indications, target timing, and appropriate populations. Controversial aspects, such as the efficacy of therapeutic hypothermia in low and middle-income countries and its application in premature babies under 35 weeks of gestation, will be explored. By participating in this activity, clinicians gain insights into the ongoing research on these topics and the evolving standards of care.

Objectives
– Differentiate between neonates with moderate to severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy who are appropriate candidates for therapeutic hypothermia and those in whom it may be controversial or less beneficial.

– Assess and recognize short-term adverse effects of therapeutic hypothermia, ensuring prompt intervention and continuous evaluation of the neonatal response and overall well-being.

– Implement therapeutic hypothermia in accordance with established guidelines, ensuring timely initiation, appropriate temperature management, and close monitoring to optimize outcomes for neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

– Collaborate with an interprofessional healthcare team, engaging in multidisciplinary discussions to optimize the evaluation, treatment, and follow-up care for neonates undergoing therapeutic hypothermia.

Disponível Em: <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/>