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A historical overview and update on pulse oximetry
1Department of Anesthesiology, University of Alabama School of Medicine, Birmingham.
Anesthesiology Review
|August 6, 1993
Summary
Pulse oximetry offers a reliable, noninvasive method for continuous blood oxygen monitoring. Its accuracy depends on patient stability and specific physiological conditions, but it has identified previously unknown hypoxemia.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Clinical Monitoring
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Pulse oximetry has transformed blood oxygenation measurement.
- It offers a noninvasive, continuous method for assessing peripheral oxygen saturation.
Observation:
- The device detects previously unknown cases of arterial hypoxemia (SaO2 < 90%).
- Accuracy is influenced by clinical context and device specifics.
Findings:
- Accurate readings require SaO2 > 22% (stable) or > 35% (unstable), temperature > 32°C, cardiac index > 1.5 L/min/m², pulse pressure > 20 mm Hg, and hematocrit > 10%.
- Fetal hemoglobin does not affect accuracy.
- Limited accuracy occurs with methemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin, nail polish, fluorescent light, and motion.
Implications:
- Pulse oximetry is a valuable tool for identifying and monitoring hypoxemia across diverse patient populations.
- Understanding its limitations is crucial for accurate clinical interpretation.
- This technology has significantly advanced patient care and safety in various medical settings.
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