Abstract

Background: Goal directed therapies (GDT) include goal directed fluid and hemodynamic therapy (GDFHT), transfusion goal directed protocols (TGDP) and enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). These GDT share common aims which are to optimize tissular oxygen delivery (DO2), oxygen consumption (VO2) and extraction ratio (O2ER).

Objectives: This editorial on the Thesis Project entitled ´Do goal directed therapies improve postoperative outcome in children’ highlights the physiology and rationale of GDT.

Methods: Editorial on the rationale of the Thesis Project in GDT in children.

Result: GDFHT, TGDP and ERAS have the same aim which is the optimization of tissular DO2, VO2 and O2ER to avoid and prevent organ dysfunction.

Conclusion: Understanding the physiology of GDT is important for optimal patients management.

Keywords: Goal directed fluid and hemodynamic therapy; Transfusion goal directed protocols; Enhanced recovery after surgery; Postoperative outcomes, Children; Oxygen delivery; Oxygen consumption; Oxygen extraction ratio; Tissular perfusion pressure