Jugular bulb oximetry for the monitoring of cerebral blood flow and metabolism.

Jugular bulb oximetry can be used to assess the balance between oxygen supply and demand to the brain, measure metabolic byproducts, and determine cerebral blood flow. It has been useful in guiding the management of patients who are at risk of developing global ischemia. In this article, the principles upon which this monitor is based are discussed. Technical considerations such as placement techniques, factors affecting accuracy, limitations of the technique, and proper interpretation of oximetric values are reviewed. Lastly, specific clinical applications are presented.