Near Infrared Spectroscopy in Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease

We are conducting a prospective cohort study of 20 children with cyanotic congenital heart disease who are admitted for cardiac surgery. We will record cerebral and somatic near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) at two sites - forehead and flank regions using the Covidien INVOS™ 5100C Cerebral / Somatic Oximeter. The monitoring will begin one hour pre-operatively (baseline) and continue until 48hours post-operatively. We will also take measurements prior to discharge from hospital. Baseline demographics, physiological and laboratory variables will be recorded. Clinical outcome variables including mortality, duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, inotropic support and feed tolerance will also be recorded.