Measuring Consciousness in the Intensive Care Unit

Neurocrit Care. 2023 Jun;38(3):584-590. doi: 10.1007/s12028-023-01706-4. Epub 2023 Apr 8.

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.

Keywords: Coma; Complexity; Consciousness; Transcranial magnetic stimulation electroencephalography (TMS-EEG).

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Consciousness Disorders / diagnosis
  • Consciousness Disorders / therapy
  • Consciousness* / physiology
  • Electroencephalography
  • Humans
  • Intensive Care Units
  • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation*