Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as a Tool for Preventing Hypoxic Complications in Children

Hypoxia is a common complication of critical conditions in neonatology and pediatrics, leading to impaired oxidative processes, development of acidosis, decreased cellular energy balance, excessive neurotransmitters, disruption of glial and neuronal metabolism. Equally important is the prevention of hypoxic brain injury during anesthesia. A promising and actively developing approach that allows physicians to manage anesthetic risks is the assessment of cerebral hemodynamics, particularly through the use of near-infrared spectroscopy. This method enables non-invasive monitoring of regional cerebral oxygenation, which at least theoretically, may help  anesthesiologists and intensivists prevent hypoxic complications in children. Each method used in clinical practice has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the limitations of near-infrared spectroscopy is the lack of clearly defined diagnostic criteria and the insufficient evidence supporting its efficacy and clinical relevance in improving postoperative outcomes in both the short and long term. Nevertheless, measurements based on the Beer-Lambert law, supported by numerous publications and studies, provides a reliable foundation for further research afocused on improving monitoring strategies and timely correction of hypoxic and ishemic cerebral brain changes through NIRS-based cerebral oxygenation monitoring. 

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