Therapeutic hypothermia for neonatal encephalopathy

Abstract

Purpose of review: Hypothermia for neonatal encephalopathy is now the standard of care. The purpose of this review is to evaluate recent publications (during the past 18 months) that impact the practice of hypothermia as neuroprotection for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

Recent findings: The review will examine recent publications that influence clinical care, including committee opinion, meta-analysis, and reports of how this practice has evolved in the clinical arena. Biomarkers of acute injury and outcome will be examined. Research involving the future of hypothermia will be noted.

Summary: The rate of death or disability following hypothermia therapy has been reduced substantially; the challenge is to evaluate whether mortality or disability can be reduced further following combination therapy.