During major surgical procedures performed under general anesthesia, changes in blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues may occur due to blood loss, hemodynamic fluctuations, and anesthesia-related physiological effects. These changes can lead to impaired tissue perfusion, which is commonly reflected by increased arterial lactate levels. However, lactate measurements are intermittent and may not detect early perfusion abnormalities.
This prospective observational study aims to investigate the relationship between submental tissue oxygenation measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), microvascular reactivity assessed by the vascular occlusion test, and arterial lactate levels during major surgery. Adult patients undergoing major abdominal, neurosurgical, or orthopedic procedures will be monitored intraoperatively using non-invasive NIRS techniques, while arterial blood gas analyses will be performed as part of routine clinical care.
The study does not involve any changes to standard anesthesia or surgical management. All treatments and clinical decisions will be made by the responsible care team according to routine practice. By evaluating non-invasive indicators of tissue oxygenation and microvascular function, this study aims to improve the understanding of early intraoperative tissue perfusion changes and their association with metabolic markers.
Adults aged 18 years and older
Scheduled for major surgical procedures under general anesthesia
Major surgery defined as procedures associated with a risk of significant blood loss and/or impaired tissue perfusion, requiring invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring and hourly arterial blood gas analysis
Planned intraoperative arterial catheter placement as part of routine clinical care
Age younger than 18 years
Refusal or inability to provide informed consent
Absence of invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring
Known pregnancy