Jugular bulb cannulation: description of a cannulation technique and validation of a new continuous monitor.

We have compared in vivo oxygen saturation recordings obtained from the Oximetrix 3 with in vitro measurements using the Instrumentation Laboratories 282 Co-Oximeter. The small mean difference (0.85%) and close limits of agreement (-4% to 6%) are close enough for clinical purposes, provided in vivo calibration is performed after insertion of the fibreoptic catheter and repeated at least every 12 h. Continuous monitoring of jugular bulb oxygen saturation during intensive care of brain injured patients is now possible using fibreoptic technology. This technique may be of value in detecting global ischaemia, and as a predictor and monitor of cerebral perfusion pressure therapy.