EEG RECORDING IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF BRAIN-D EATH

Scientific and modern conception of brain-death is rather recent, thus making possible organ transplantations. During the past three decades clinical criteria for brain-death have been defined. Electroencephalo graphy (EEG) appears to be a complementary tool as it permits brain-de ath assessment. In France laws enforced respectively in 1968, 1978, 19 91 and 1996 provide a framework for brain-death evaluation before orga n transplantation and include EEG recording. Advantages and pittfalls of EEG in the diagnosis of brain-death are considered as this techniqu e may be unreliable. Only evoked potential recordings can allow assess ment and confirmation of brain stem death, which is a mandatory criter ion. We recommend simultaneous EEG and either brain stem auditory or s omatosensory evoked potential recordings to strengthen clinical criter ia of brain-death and definitely prove it using objective electrophysi ological criteria.