The use of therapeutic magnesium for neuroprotection during global cerebral ischemia associated with cardiac arrest and cardiac surgery in adults: a systematic review.

Global cerebral ischemia occurs due to reduced blood supply to the brain. This is commonly caused by a cessation of myocardial activity associated with cardiac arrest and cardiac surgery. Survival is not the only important outcome because neurological dysfunction impacts on quality of life, reducing independent living. Magnesium has been identified as a potential neuroprotective agent; however, its role in this context is not yet clear.