SC to examine plea against apnoea test for brain death, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court is examining a plea questioning the reliability of the apnoea test for determining brain death, particularly in Kerala.
• A medical professional, S. Ganapathy, claims the apnoea test itself may induce brain death by affecting cerebral blood flow.
• The petitioner suggests using ancillary tests like EEG, angiography, or CT angiography for conclusive assessment.
• The court has directed AIIMS, New Delhi, to form an expert team and submit recommendations in two months.
  
  
  

  41f47351-b51a-48e7-a1d8-ef94303945ca.png

Detailed Insights:

• The petitioner argues that the should only be a confirmatory test, aligning with WHO guidelines and international standards.
• The State of Kerala asserts adherence to statutory protocols and disputes the petitioner's concerns as scientifically unfounded.
• Allegations of malpractices in organ transplantation procedures in Kerala have been raised, with claims of premature brain death declarations.
• The court acknowledged the petitioner's information indicating malpractices related to organ transplantation procedures in Kerala.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Apnoea Test: A diagnostic test to assess brainstem function by monitoring respiratory response to increased carbon dioxide levels.
• Electroencephalography (EEG): A neurophysiological test that measures and records brain electrical activity.
• Angiography: A medical imaging technique used to visualize blood vessels and the circulatory system.
• Brain Death: The irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brainstem.