Difference between brain temperature and core temperature in severe traumatic brain injury: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Critical Care Medicine
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) management focuses on preventing secondary brain damage.
• Targeted temperature management, including hypothermia, is explored for its neuroprotective effects.
• Understanding the brain-core temperature gradient is vital for effective TBI treatment.

Approach:

• Systematic literature review of PubMed and Web of Science databases.
• Inclusion of studies with simultaneous continuous measurement of brain temperature (Tb) and core temperature (Tc) in severe TBI patients.
• Modified NIH quality assessment tool and meta-analysis for data extraction.

Key Points:

• 16 studies with 480 patients were analyzed, revealing significant clinical and statistical heterogeneity.
• The pooled mean temperature gradient between brain and core temperature was +0.14°C (range: -1.29°C to +1.1°C).
• Lower brain temperatures were observed in patients who underwent decompressive craniectomy.

Conclusions:

• On average, brain and core temperatures in TBI patients do not differ significantly (<0.2°C).
• High heterogeneity exists in studies measuring brain and core temperatures.
• Standardization of temperature measurement techniques is recommended for improved clinical interpretation and interventions in TBI care.