WHAT IS BRAIN DEATH?
A. Brain death is the complete and irreversible cessation of all brain function. It can occur following a catastrophic brain injury such as a cerebral hemorrhage or trauma to the head. In such cases, the heart and lungs can continue to function temporarily with artificial respiratory support, allowing the organs to remain viable for donation. Standards for the determination of brain death are very strict, and death based on the absence of brain function is legally recognized in every state and is an accepted medical and ethical principle.
