Definition

Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a condition in which the entire brain does not receive enough oxygen, but isn’t completely deprived. This particular condition refers to an oxygen deficiency to the brain as a whole, rather than a part of the brain. Although the term most often refers to injury sustained by new born infants, HIE can be used to described any injury from low oxygen.

HIE can be fatal. Within as little as five minutes of oxygen deprivation, brain cells can begin dying. The disease can also cause long-term damage, including mental retardation , delayed development, seizures , and cerebral palsy .

Blood Supply to the Brain

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