Mapping the collateral network: Optimal near-infrared spectroscopy optode placement

cnNIRS is capable of detecting relevant changes during ischemia and reperfusion from the mid-thoracic level downward with characteristic oxygenation patterns corresponding to CN and spinal cord regional perfusion. For extensive aortic procedures, noninvasive cnNIRS placement appears to be useful from the mid-thoracic level (T7-T9) to the lower lumbar level (L3-L5) and also may serve as a versatile monitoring method for procedures limited to the proximal thoracic aorta.