What is the typical therapeutic hypothermia period for neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy?

The typical therapeutic hypothermia period for neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy is 72 hours. This duration is based on clinical studies that have demonstrated the effectiveness of maintaining a controlled hypothermic state for this time frame in order to provide neuroprotection to the affected neonates. The cooling process helps to reduce the metabolic demand of the brain and limit the cascade of cellular damage that occurs following a hypoxic injury.

During the 72-hour period of hypothermia, careful monitoring of the neonate’s clinical status, vital signs, and neurological function is critical. After this duration, the gradual rewarming process is initiated to safely return the infant to normothermia while continuing to monitor for potential complications.

In clinical practice, shorter or longer durations than 72 hours have not shown the same levels of efficacy in improving outcomes for these vulnerable patients, which is why this specific time frame is emphasized in guidelines and research.