Protection in Animal Models of Brain and Spinal Cord Injury with Mild to Moderate Hypothermia

Mild to moderate hypothermia has shown promise in protecting the brain and spinal cord after injury in animal models. Even small decreases in brain temperature can protect the CNS, while slight increases can worsen outcomes. The study of therapeutic hypothermia is now an international endeavor with contributions from scientists and clinicians worldwide.

• 1
  Mild hypothermia can improve functional outcomes in transient global ischemia models, including sensorimotor and cognitive functions.
• 2
  Postischemic hypothermia can protect the CA1 hippocampus, but the therapeutic window, duration of hypothermia, and survival period are critical factors.
• 3
  In traumatic brain injury models, moderate hypothermia has been shown to reduce mortality rates, improve motor deficits, and enhance cognitive functioning.