Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthésie
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
A comparison of transcutaneous end-tidal and arterial measurements of carbon dioxide during general anaesthesia.
A randomized, prospective study was performed to evaluate the accuracy of a new transcutaneous carbon dioxide (CO2) monitor (Fastrac) during general anaesthesia. Twenty-two adult patients undergoing elective surgery were subjected to three different levels of minute ventilation by varying their respiratory rates in a randomized cross-over design. Simultaneous measurements of transcutaneous CO2 (PTCCO2) and arterial CO2 (PaCO2) were obtained at three levels of minute ventilation (low, medium and high). ⋯ These differences were greatest when PaCO2 was in the high range (48-60 mmHg). We conclude that the new Fastrac CO2 monitor is accurate for monitoring carbon dioxide levels during general anaesthesia. The new transcutaneous devices provide an effective method for non-invasive monitoring of CO2 in situations where continuous, precise control of CO2 levels is desired.