- Eileen Maloney-Wilensky: Clinical Research Division, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, 330 S. 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
INTRODUCTION: Secondary neuronal injury is implicated in poor outcome after acute neurological insults. Outcome can be improved with protocol-driven therapy. These therapies have largely been based on monitoring and control of intracranial pressure and the maintenance of an adequate cerebral perfusion pressure.
DISCUSSION: In recent years, brain tissue oxygen partial pressure (PbtO2) monitoring has emerged as a clinically useful modality and a complement to intracranial pressure monitors. This review examines the physiology of PbtO2 monitors and practical aspects of their use.