Characterizing electroencephalogram dynamics during sedation withdrawal: Insights into cortical recovery following status epilepticus

We studied how brain activity changes after stopping the sedative propofol in adults treated for severe, long-lasting seizures. Most patients showed little improvement in their brain activity after sedation was stopped, while a smaller group showed signs of recovery. Patients whose seizures lasted longer were more likely to have little or no improvement in their brain activity patterns. These early brain activity patterns did not predict long-term functional outcomes but may help identify how the brain is recovering after severe seizures.