Brain death is the irreversible loss of all brain function, including the functions needed to sustain life.Brain death is not a coma: it is permanent and irreversible. In France, the diagnosis is strictly regulated by law and requires a series of examinations that establish it beyond doubt. While the diagnosis is being confirmed and the deceased person’s wishes concerning organ donation are being established, mechanical ventilation and other support are continued to preserve organs that may be suitable for transplantation.
This can be deeply confusing for families: because breathing and circulation are being maintained artificially, the person may still look as though they are alive.
In France, three clinical criteria must all be present before brain death can be diagnosed:
An additional investigation must then confirm that the loss of brain function is irreversible:
Two doctors formally certify brain death and both sign the official record of death.
When brain death has occurred, the patient may be able to donate organs for transplantation into people with life-threatening illness.In France, the large majority of organs retrieved for transplantation come from people who have died following brain death. Some organs or tissues can also be donated by living donors—for example, a kidney or bone marrow—and certain tissues, including corneas, may be donated after the heart has stopped.
If organ donation may be possible, a member of the intensive care team or a specialist transplant coordinator will speak with you to establish what the person’s wishes were concerning organ donation.They will explain the situation and the process clearly and answer your questions.
Any decision about organ donation is approached with the greatest respect for the deceased person’s values, beliefs and wishes, and for the feelings of those close to them. Whatever the outcome, the person will continue to receive respectful care and the team will do everything possible to support you.