Therapeutic temperature modulation in neurocritical care.

The ability to effectively achieve and maintain long-term temperature control is an important goal that has been previously unachievable in the neurocritical care setting. Previous attempts have been limited by the inability to overcome physiologic defense mechanisms, short duration of action, or significant adverse effects. Recent advances in technology have made therapeutic temperature modulation feasible. In this review, current concepts of therapeutic temperature modulation are presented. New advances in technology may provide an important breakthrough in the ability to reduce fever-associated morbidity in neurocritically ill patients. What remains to be seen is whether the advantages of these technologies will outweigh the risks associated with therapeutic temperature modulation.