Der Anaesthesist
-
Comparative Study
[Pulse oximetry as a continuous, noninvasive monitoring procedure. Comparison of 2 instruments].
Pulse oximetry allows continuous registration of the arterial oxygen saturation by using the light absorption in a wave range between 600 and 1,000 nm. In addition the peripheral pulse is determined by a plethysmographic method. Two new devices, the Biox III pulse oximeter and the Nellcor pulse oximeter were compared for the following three items: 1. ⋯ The onset time for registering a suddenly appearing hypoxia: For the Biox III oximeter we found a time lag between 6 and 42 s (median 21 s), for the Nellcor Oximeter between 12-39 s (median 21 s). 3. The pulse frequency corresponded very well with the simultaneously registered heart rate of the ECG. Our results indicate that pulse oximetry--a continuous and noninvasive method--is a reliable monitor for oxygen saturation, and provides trend informations about circulation, both of which are particularly appropriate for patients breathing spontaneously.
-
A new fiberoptic endoscope is presented for the special situation of endotracheal intubation only in anesthesiological and intensive care. There is quite an improved cost efficiency due to decreased price, considering its variety of uses.