The value of blood oxygen determinations.

The blood oxygen determination is of great value in the diagnosis of congenital cardiovascular anomalies, evaluation of the relative influence between pulmonary and cardiac diseases, study of blood pigments, and in many physiological investigations. The recent popularization of the intravascular catheter and the advent of accurate and simplified methods for determining blood oxygen content have enhanced the clinical usage of the determinations. The correct interpretation of the data with regard to the clinical status of the patient is most essential. While the blood oxygen value is merely a laboratory determination, proper employment of the findings may afford crucial information for the clinician.