Tissue Oximetry for Monitoring Limb Ischemia during Intra-Aortic Balloon Counterpulsation: Clinical Case

Temporary placement of an intra-aortic balloon pump for the treatment of perioperative myocardial infarction in patients with severe peripheral artery disease and systemic hypoperfusion is associated with an increased risk of lower limb ischemia. In such clinical settings, it is particularly important to use methods that allow objective and continuous assessment of local tissue perfusion. This article presents a clinical case of using tissue oximetry based on near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to monitor regional oxygenation in a patient with acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock following coronary artery bypass grafting.

The patient had severe stenosis of the iliac artery (greater than 70%), which significantly increased the risk of isch­emic complications during catheter placement for intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation. The use of NIRS enabled continuous monitoring of regional oxygen saturation in the calf muscles and early detection of subtle changes in distal perfusion. As systemic hemodynamics stabilized, a consistent increase in regional oxygen saturation was observed, reflecting improved peripheral tissue perfusion.

The use of tissue oximetry in this clinical case ensured safe mechanical circulatory support without the risk of lower limb ischemia, demonstrating the high practical value of this method in the perioperative management of high-risk patients.

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