[The diagnosis of brain death. Guidelines in Germany, Austria and Switzerland].

Today's modern medicine with its nearly limitless possibilities requires a well-founded diagnosis of brain death. After this diagnosis continuation of intensive medical care becomes meaningless, or an essential precondition for organ donation is fulfilled. In view of the delicate problems involved, it is essential that brain death be diagnosed uniformly and in well-founded fashion. Responsible institutions in Germany, Austria and Switzerland have issued guidelines, criteria and aids to decision making that vary only insignificantly.