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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Long Can The Heart Continue To Function In A Brain Dead Patient?

A couple weeks ago, my cousin was injured in a car accident. Trauma to the head and other injuries. My aunt emailed this morning and said: The Emergency room doctor told us that his heart was beating but his brain was dead and all doctors in the room decided to stop to help him. I have two questions which I m seeking an opinion on: 1. If a brain is dead, can the heart continue to function for a long period of time? In this case, I think it had to be 20 minutes from the time of the accident to the time the ambulance arrived at the ER. 2. Wasn t termination of further medical assistance really up to the next-of-kin? I m just looking for a simple explanation or non-binding opinion. Any assistance on this matter that you could extend to me would be appreciated. I have to go visit my aunt on Tuesday and I d like to have these answers so that I go with some peace of mind before I see her and make her more upset than she already is. Thank you for your time and help.
Tue, 14 Oct 2014
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Neurologist, Surgical,  's  Response
Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. If your cousin is diagnosed with brain death ( there are examinations that determine it, EEG, cerebral and brainstem reflexes absent, etc.) then his heart can beat for a indefinite time if there is medical support, if no his heart will stop soon. The time that human brain resists without oxygen is 3 to 5 minutes, beyond this time (without blood and oxygen) happens brain death and if the diagnosis is correct there is nothing to do to help him. Sorry I have to say this. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
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How Long Can The Heart Continue To Function In A Brain Dead Patient?

Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. If your cousin is diagnosed with brain death ( there are examinations that determine it, EEG, cerebral and brainstem reflexes absent, etc.) then his heart can beat for a indefinite time if there is medical support, if no his heart will stop soon. The time that human brain resists without oxygen is 3 to 5 minutes, beyond this time (without blood and oxygen) happens brain death and if the diagnosis is correct there is nothing to do to help him. Sorry I have to say this. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.