An evaluation of three new blood-gas analyzer systems.

Three new pH-blood-gas analyzer systems have been evaluated. These are the ABL-1, the Croning 165, the Il 513. Because of automation of analysis, accuracy, and speed of analysis, this generation of instruments represents great progress over the previous one. The ABL-1 is the most automated system: all analyses are computer controlled. The pH, P02 and PCO2 values are accurate. Calibration can not be adjusted. The Corning 165 is the least automated system. Its pH determinations are the most accurate and it is the one which uses the smallest volume of blood (125 mul). However it is the least stable and takes the longest time for completion of the analysis. The IL 513 is probably the best balanced system and its calibration can be modified. Its operation is well automated and its results are accurate.