Journal of clinical monitoring and computing
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J Clin Monit Comput · Apr 2018
Letter Case ReportsAn abrupt reduction in end tidal carbon di oxide concentration in a mechanically ventilated patient in neurocritical care ward: a capnogram artifact.
In patients with normal lung and reasonable cardiac function such as head injury patients, the PETCo2 can be used as a surrogate for partial pressure of Carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in mechanically ventilated patients. Thus early interpretation and accurate assessment of capnogram is crucial in neurocritical care patients. Here we present and discuss a scenario where in connection of a jet nebulizer to the ventilator lead to abrupt decrease in end tidal carbon dioxide leading to a diagnostic dilemma. Also this report highlights and discusses the importance of the proper placement of breathing circuit components to ensure accurate CO2 readings in particular the use of a jet nebulizer.
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J Clin Monit Comput · Apr 2018
Short term general anesthesia for retro-bulbar block in ophthalmic surgery generates no significant hypercapnia.
To assess the impact of short time hypnosis for retro-bulbar anesthesia on ventilation in patients undergoing ophthalmic surgery of the anterior eye chamber. In all patients, a combined continuous transcutaneous carbon dioxide tension (PtcCO2) and partial oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurement was applied in addition to routine monitoring. To enable unconscious application of retro-bulbar anesthesia, intravenous thiopental was given in one to multiple bolus doses. ⋯ Higher PtcCO2 values were associated with the presence of hypertension and smoking. Apnea (p < 0.001) and recovery (p = 0.003) time were significantly prolonged in the patients needing the Esmarch maneuver. Short term anesthesia with thiopental in ophthalmic surgery is associated with a mild but not clinically relevant hypercapnia.