La Revue du praticien
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Brain death is defined as an irreversible damage to the brain stem associated with lesions of the hemispheres. It determines the irremediable destruction of the whole body which occurs within a short delay. Brain death diagnosis is identified from a series of neurological criteria, i.e.: the loss of consciousness, the disappearance of brainstem reflexes, the lack of spontaneous breathing movements. ⋯ Organ harvesting is organized according to guidelines for local practice and regional and national allocation. In consideration of transplantation requirements there is a persisting organ shortage for several years. Efforts must be directed toward an improvement in brain dead patients identification and management.