Hypothermia following traumatic brain injury in children

In animal models and human studies, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is known to be associated with a secondary injury that occurs after the initial impact. There is a growing body of evidence in laboratory and clinical studies that moderate hypothermia may have a beneficial effect on attenuating cerebral tissue damage. Further studies are necessary to ensure safety and efficacy of hypothermia in the pediatric population. It is expected that hypothermia initiated early after severe TBI will have a protective effect on the pediatric brain and can be done safely.