Diagnosis and management of brain death in children

This article reviews the concept of death and, specifically, the definitions of brain death, particularly as applied to children. The development of definitions for the concept of brain death has been driven by the technological advances of the last century in intensive care, long-term ventilatory support and transplantation medicine. Brain death is not uncommon in children. Attention to the management of children who are brain dead, with timely diagnosis and intervention where appropriate can improve the condition of organs for transplantation. Full and careful discussion of the situation with the parents may enable the family to better accept the death of their child.