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Integration of Brain Tissue Saturation Monitoring in Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in Patients with Heart Failure
Published on: October 1, 2019
Cerebral oxygenation decreases but does not impair performance during self-paced, strenuous exercise
F Billaut1, J M Davis, K J Smith
1University of Lethbridge, AB, Canada. f.billaut@uleth.ca <f.billaut@uleth.ca>
Acta Physiologica (Oxford, England)
|November 17, 2009
Summary
Cerebral deoxygenation (Cox) does not hinder performance during self-paced 5km running. Even at maximal exertion, the brain maintains sufficient oxygenation for strenuous exercise.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Neuroscience
- Sports Science
Background:
- Cerebral oxygenation (Cox) reduction is linked to exercise cessation in lab settings.
- Ecological validity of lab tests is limited; cerebral hemodynamics during self-paced exercise remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate cerebral hemodynamics during a self-paced 5-km running time trial in trained runners.
- Determine if cerebral deoxygenation occurs and impacts performance during self-selected exertion.
Main Methods:
- Near-infrared spectroscopy monitored Cox via oxy- and deoxyhemoglobin changes.
- Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and lower limb EMG were recorded.
- Total hemoglobin (Delta[THb]) changes indicated regional blood volume.
Main Results:
- RPE increased to maximal levels (6.6 to 19.1).
- Cox rose initially, plateaued, then fell towards the end of the trial.
- The drop in Cox coincided with a final sprint and increased muscle recruitment.
Conclusions:
- Exercise at sea level demonstrates a high tolerance for changes in cerebral oxygenation.
- Self-paced strenuous exercise allows cerebral deoxygenation within a range that does not impede performance.
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