When a newborn premature or full-term baby is diagnosed with Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), a brain injury caused by lack of oxygen, it can result in life-long problems and even death. But, when a special treatment called Therapeutic Hypothermia, using Whole Body Cooling, is started very soon after birth, damage can be reduced and there can be better outcomes for the infant. The treatment, which involves reducing the infant’s temperature for 72 hours, has been shown to prevent further damage and promote healing.
Stony Brook is the only regional center in Suffolk County that offers this proven treatment, which is available through the Neonatology Division.