Neuroprotection. Usefulness of processed electroencephalogram monitors in anesthesia and critical care

Processed electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring has become established as a key tool for integrating brain function into the management of surgical and critically ill patients. The combined information from the raw EEG recording, processed indices, and the spectral density matrix helps guide anesthetic depth, optimize sedation, and enable early detection of states of excessive cortical depression, contributing to a neuroprotective strategy. Its use facilitates the identification of vulnerable brains, the prevention of delirium, and the individualization of treatment. It also allows recognition of subclinical epileptic activity, alterations in cerebral perfusion, and metabolic changes, favoring early interventions. Interpretation should be performed dynamically and integrated with the clinical context, as multiple factors can modify EEG patterns. Although processed EEG monitoring has technical limitations and does not replace conventional EEG, its incorporation into practice improves safety and decision-making, and promotes personalized brain monitoring in anesthesia and intensive care.