Near-infrared spectroscopy versus magnetic resonance imaging to study brain perfusion in newborns with hypoxicaischemic encephalopathy treated with hypothermia

Background: The measurement of brain perfusion may provide valuable information for assessment and treatment of newborns with hypoxicaischemic encephalopathy (HIE). While arterial spin labeled perfusion (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides noninvasive and direct measurements of regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) values, it is logistically challenging to obtain. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) might be an alternative, as it permits noninvasive and continuous monitoring of cerebral hemodynamics and oxygenation at the bedside.