Donation after brain circulation determination of death

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Organ Donation
• Neurology

Background:

• The primary factor in death is the irreversible cessation of brain circulation and function.
• Current organ donation protocols require re-evaluation for accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a new term and framework for organ donation after circulatory determination of death.
• To establish clear criteria for death declaration in organ donation contexts.

Main Methods:

• Defining death based on permanent cessation of brain circulation.
• Implementing safeguards against errors in death determination.
• Emphasizing informed consent for organ donation.

Main Results:

• Donation after brain circulation determination of death (DBCDD) allows death declaration when circulatory cessation is permanent but not yet irreversible.
• Safeguards include verifying circulatory cessation, ensuring no resumption of brain circulation, and confirming permanent loss of brain function.
• Brain death tests are deemed unnecessary; systemic circulation cessation is the definitive criterion.

Conclusions:

• Death in DBCDD is defined by the permanent cessation of brain function, evidenced by the permanent cessation of brain circulation.
• Consensus among stakeholders is crucial due to the divergence from current standards.
• Informed consent must be obtained from patients or surrogates regarding the basis of death declaration.