• Erin A Booth, Chris Dukatz, James Ausman, and Michael Wider.
• Medical Science, Somanetics Corporation, Troy, USA.
• Surg Neurol Int. 2010 Jan 1; 1: 75.

BackgroundThe development in the last decade of noninvasive, near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) analysis of tissue hemoglobin saturation in vivo has provided a new and dramatic tool for the management of hemodynamics, allowing early detection and correction of imbalances in oxygen delivery to the brain and vital organs.DescriptionThe theory and validation of NIRS and its clinical use are reviewed. Studies are cited documenting tissue penetration and response to various physiologic and pharmacologic mechanisms resulting in changes in oxygen delivery and blood flow to the organs and brain as reflected in the regional hemoglobin oxygen saturation (rSO(2)). The accuracy of rSO(2) readings and the clinical use of NIRS in cardiac surgery and intensive care in adults, children and infants are discussed.ConclusionsClinical studies have demonstrated that NIRS can improve outcome and enhance patient management, avoiding postoperative morbidities and potentially preventing catastrophic outcomes.

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