Correlation between Regional Cerebral Oxygen Saturation (Rso2) and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Severe Head Injury

Abstract

Background: Severe head injury often results in significant neurological impairment and requires careful monitoring to optimize management and improve outcomes. rSO2, measured using near- infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), provides real-time insights into cerebral oxygenation and may be a valuable prognostic tool.

Objective: To examine the correlation between regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) and clinical outcomes in patients with severe head injury.
Methods: A total of 60 patients with severe head injury were included in this study at the Department of Anaesthesiology. rSO2 levels were monitored at admission, 24 hours, and 48 hours. Clinical outcomes were assessed using Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores, mortality rates, and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) scores at discharge. Correlation analyses were performed to explore the relationships between rSO2 and these outcomes.

Results: Higher rSO2 levels at all monitored time points were significantly associated with improved GCS scores, reduced mortality rates, and better GOS scores at discharge. Specifically, rSO2 was positively correlated with GCS scores (r = 0.62 at 24 hours and r = 0.68 at discharge) and negatively correlated with mortality (p = 0.023). Improved rSO2 also corresponded with higher GOS scores (p = 0.015).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates a significant correlation between rSO2 and clinical outcomes in severe head injury patients. Higher rSO2 levels are associated with better neurological function, lower mortality, and improved recovery. Continuous monitoring of rSO2 can aid in the management of severe head injury and potentially enhance patient outcomes.

Keywords: Regional Cerebral Oxygen Saturation, Severe Head Injury, Glasgow Coma Scale, Mortality, Functional Recovery, Near-Infrared Spectroscopy