Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 3, 2026

Brain Death Induction in Mice Using Intra-Arterial Blood Pressure Monitoring and Ventilation via Tracheostomy
Published on: April 17, 2020
[Apnea test for assessment of brain death under extracorporeal life support]
S Winter1, H V Groesdonk2, M Beiderlinden3
1Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Niels-Stensen-Kliniken, Marienhospital Osnabrück, Bischofsstr. 1, 49074, Osnabrück, Deutschland. sebastian.winter@mho.de.
Background:
The fourth edition of the German guideline for the assessment of brain death, published in 2015 by the German Medical Council (Bundesärztekammer), emphasizes the importance of an apnea test. It is also now required under all circumstances of extracorporeal life support.
Objectives:
This article is an instruction for the guideline-conforming performance of an apnea test in general and also in cases of extracorporeal life support in different configurations.
Materials And Methods:
A literature review was performed.
Conclusions:
The apnea test is an essential part of the bedside examination for the clinical diagnosis of brain death. It is required for all kinds of extracorporeal life support and can be easily performed without endangering the patient. More accurate recommendations for its performance should be considered for the next version of the German guideline for brain death assessment.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Diffusion and Perfusion
The Role of Diffusion in Respiration
Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. In the respiratory system, this...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration...
Endotracheal Tube Extubation
Procedure
Extubation removes the endotracheal tube (ETT) from the patient on mechanical ventilation. It requires a well-coordinated, multidisciplinary approach involving physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals....

