Clinical trial of the Continucath intra-arterial oxygen monitor. A comparison with intermittent arterial blood gas analysis.

An intra-arterial continuous display oxygen electrode for radial artery cannulation is now available in the UK. Nine catheters were used in patients during and after hypothermic cardiac surgery. Results obtained were compared with those from conventional intermittent blood gas samples. Slow temperature response times negate its use during hypothermic surgery. A good correlation was found during the postoperative period. Indications for its use are discussed.