Which reflex is used to assess brainstem function in suspected brain death?

Which reflex is used to assess brainstem function in suspected brain death?

• A. Doll's eyes reflex
• B. Babinski reflex
• C. Gag reflex
• D. Pupillary light reflex

Answer: (A)

Brainstem integrity is checked with reflexes that rely on brainstem circuits, and the oculocephalic reflex (Doll's eyes) is a classic test in suspected brain death. When the head is turned, a functioning brainstem should drive the eyes to move in the opposite direction to keep gaze fixed. If this eye movement is absent or the eyes track with the head, it indicates loss of brainstem ocular motor function, supporting brain death or severe brainstem injury. Other reflexes like the gag or pupillary light reflex also involve the brainstem, but the Doll's eyes reflex is the most specific test used to quickly gauge brainstem oculomotor pathways in this context.

Brainstem integrity is checked with reflexes that rely on brainstem circuits, and the oculocephalic reflex (Doll's eyes) is a classic test in suspected brain death. When the head is turned, a functioning brainstem should drive the eyes to move in the opposite direction to keep gaze fixed. If this eye movement is absent or the eyes track with the head, it indicates loss of brainstem ocular motor function, supporting brain death or severe brainstem injury. Other reflexes like the gag or pupillary light reflex also involve the brainstem, but the Doll's eyes reflex is the most specific test used to quickly gauge brainstem oculomotor pathways in this context.