What does measurement of brain tissue pO2, pCO2 & pH add to neuromonitoring?

In this paper the rationale behind utilizing the brain tissue measurements of oxygen, carbon dioxide, pH and temperature is evaluated in the context of ischemia. These parameters were measured using an intraparenchymal multi-parametric brain tissue monitor (Paratrend 7). The need to establish the relevance of this type of monitoring becomes acute as further experience is gained using this kind of technology. Our experience with such a device is presented and is illustrated with two clinical cases. The potential caveats and areas of possible future work are also delineated.