Visualizing beyond macrohemodynamics

Abstract

The main function of the cardiovascular system is the maintenance of an atmosphere suitable for the functionality of the tissues. Within this system, we find different steps to evaluate in our patients, microcirculation being the last step in the system. Microcirculation is the main means of supplying oxygen to tissue cells and is essential for the maintenance of life and cell function. The function of the organs depends directly on the function of their respective microcirculation, and the achievement of a good microcirculatory function can be considered as the main objective of the cardiovascular system. Therefore, macrocirculation monitoring is not capable of detecting microcirculatory dysfunction and limits therapy directed to macrodynamic targets. Microcirculation has been evaluated with different methods, of which we will focus in this article on handheld microscopes, which allow in vivo, real-time and non-invasive visualization of microcirculation.