Use of an iridium-oxide transcutaneous carbon dioxide electrode on adult surgical patients

A new iridium/iridium-oxide electrode heated to 42 degrees C was used to monitor transcutaneous carbon dioxide levels during surgery in 27 adult patients. The purpose of this study was to compare arterial and transcutaneous CO2 values. This metal electrode performed similarly to glass CO2 electrodes. In addition, its lower operating temperature may reduce the risk of skin injury and more quickly reflect changes in local tissue perfusion.