What are the effects of therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac arrest on neurologic outcomes, survival, and adverse events?

Cardiac arrest refers to a sustained decrease in function of the heart without evidence of circulation. Recent reports indicate that cardiac arrest causes between 15% and 20% of deaths in many countries. Those who survive a cardiac arrest have a high risk of neurologic harm due to hypoxia and a resultant decreased quality of life. Management strategies for cardiac arrest include early cardiopulmonary resuscitation with defibrillation, circulatory support, and temperature management. The use of therapeutic hypothermia, also referred to as targeted temperature management, may help protect against neurologic damage after cardiac arrest through several pathways, including slowing down the inflammation process and reducing cerebral metabolism and edema. Although previous studies indicated that induced hypothermia was beneficial, some recent research has shown no benefit from this strategy and a...

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