Cerebral Microdialysis
Invasive monitoring technique that samples brain extracellular fluid to assess cerebral metabolism.
Full Definition
Cerebral Microdialysis involves placement of a small catheter with a semipermeable membrane into brain tissue to sample extracellular fluid and monitor cerebral metabolism in real-time. Key parameters include glucose, lactate, pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, and glycerol, which reflect cellular energy metabolism and membrane integrity. This technique provides unique insights into brain tissue viability and metabolic distress that may not be apparent from other monitoring modalities. Cerebral microdialysis is particularly valuable in traumatic brain injury and subarachnoid hemorrhage patients for guiding therapeutic interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the brain region where the catheter is placed.
In Context
- "Cerebral microdialysis revealed an elevated lactate-to-pyruvate ratio indicating metabolic crisis despite normal intracranial pressure." — Neurocritical care monitoring report