Brain death.

Abstract

The development and evolution of the concept of brain death has been necessary due to our technologic advances in medical care and organ transplantation. The current operational definition of brain death is based on coma, absent brain stem reflexes, and apnea, with use of confirmatory testing only as necessary. This definition has demonstrated functional utility and may be further refined over time. Medical providers and the public continue to become increasingly comfortable with the concept of brain death.