What is a induced coma?

An induced coma, also known as a medically induced coma or therapeutic hypothermia, is a deliberate, temporary state of unconsciousness that is induced in patients via medication for medical purposes. It involves the controlled depression of brain activity, typically achieved by administering sedative or anesthetic drugs.

Induced comas are medically induced for various reasons:

Therapeutic Hypothermia: For patients who have suffered cardiac arrest or severe brain injury, induced comas can help reduce brain metabolism, prevent further damage to brain cells, and improve the chances of recovery. Lowering body temperature slows the body's metabolic rate and helps reduce the brain's demand for oxygen and energy.

Treatment-Resistant Status Epilepticus: In cases of status epilepticus, a prolonged or continuous series of seizures, an induced coma can be induced to control the seizure activity and provide the brain with a chance to rest.

Severe Infections: In critical conditions, such as severe sepsis, where inflammation and organ dysfunction can be life-threatening, an induced coma can allow for better control of vital functions, including maintaining blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration.

Intracranial Pressure Management: In cases involving increased intracranial pressure (ICP) due to conditions such as brain swelling or bleeding, an induced coma can be induced to reduce brain metabolism, decrease ICP, and improve cerebral perfusion.

Rest for the Patient: In some cases, particularly for patients undergoing complex medical procedures or who are critically ill, an induced coma can provide a controlled state of rest to aid in their recovery.

The decision to induce a coma is carefully considered by medical professionals based on the individual patient's condition and prognosis. Induced comas are typically closely monitored, and the patient is gradually awakened when the medical need has passed.