[Continuous transcutaneous blood gas monitoring during fiberbronchoscopy]

In 28 patients PO2 and PCO2 were measured continuously during diagnostic fiberbronchoscopy by means of transcutaneous electrodes (PtcO2 and Ptc CO2 System TCM Radiometer Copenhagen). A mean decrease in PtcO2 of 31% (s +/- 16.5%) was found. This effect can be prohibited by using oxygen insufflation at a rate of 0.5 liters per minute by nasal tube. The positive effect of fiberbronchoscopic lavage in cases of severe dyscrinism is documented. A mean increase in PtcO2 of 42% was found after the procedure, but there is a time lag of 20-30 minutes until the maximal increase is reached. In patients with known but not acute bronchial asthma the irritation of the bronchial system by fiberbronchoscopy induces a histamine release. There is no relation between the release of histamine and the decrease in arterial oxygen tension.