microdialysis
Invasive monitoring technique measuring brain tissue biochemistry through implanted catheters.
Full Definition
Microdialysis is an advanced neuromonitoring technique used in neurocritical care to measure the biochemical composition of brain extracellular fluid in real-time. The technique involves implanting a thin catheter with a semipermeable membrane into brain tissue, allowing for the collection and analysis of small molecules such as glucose, lactate, pyruvate, glutamate, and glycerol. These measurements provide insight into cellular metabolism, energy failure, and secondary brain injury mechanisms. Microdialysis data helps clinicians assess tissue viability, detect ischemia, and guide therapeutic interventions. The lactate-to-pyruvate ratio is particularly important as an indicator of anaerobic metabolism and potential ischemia.
Usage
Usage note: Written as one word; avoid hyphenating except in compound forms like 'microdialysis-guided therapy'.
In Context
- "Microdialysis revealed elevated lactate-pyruvate ratios in the perilesional brain tissue." — research study
- "The neurocritical care team used microdialysis to monitor metabolic changes following the patient's traumatic brain injury." — case presentation