[Using a high inspiratory oxygen fraction during surgery].

In this article we discuss the current level of evidence for using a high inspiratory oxygen fraction (0.60-0.90) during surgery. More than 7,000 patients have been included in randomized trials, but no significant beneficial effect was found in a recent meta-analysis as compared with 0.30-0.40 oxygen. A high oxygen fraction should be used to correct or prevent hypoxaemia in special situations, but the available studies do not allow a recommendation to use a high inspiratory oxygen fraction as a routine practice in surgical patients.