Continuous end-tidal carbon dioxide monitoring during normofrequent jet-ventilation.

Abstract

Continuous end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) monitoring during normofrequent jet-ventilation (NFJV) has not previously been successful and no correspondence between ETCO2 and arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) demonstrated. During NFJV jet-ventilation in 19 healthy volunteers, continuous ETCO2 was measured and compared to PaCO2 values. The original ETCO2 sampling line from our Datex CO2 measuring equipment was placed longitudinally against a suction catheter and both were wrapped with aluminium foil. They were placed 4-5 cm above the carina and the position was verified with a fiberoptic bronchoscope. The correlation between methods gave a Pearson's product moment correlation (r value) of 0.836, significant at the P < 0.001 level, indicating a close correlation between methods. A difference against mean scatter diagram confirmed that ETCO2 and PaCO2 measurements are of equal value in monitoring healthy patients during NFJV. A valuable method of continuous ETCO2 monitoring during NFJV is presented.