Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Neonates Before Palliation of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

Near-infrared spectroscopy monitoring of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome awaiting palliation provides noninvasive assessment of oxygen delivery and simplified management, with reduced use of controlled ventilation and inspired gas. Higher SaO2 in the NIRS group was not associated with impaired systemic oxygen delivery, and did not lead to earlier palliation or postoperative mortality.