Non-invasive capnodynamic mixed venous oxygen saturation during major changes in oxygen delivery

Mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO₂) is an important variable in anesthesia and intensive care but currently requires pulmonary artery catheterization. Recently, non-invasive determination of SvO₂ (Capno-SvO₂) using capnodynamics has shown good agreement against CO-oximetry in an animal model of modest hemodynamic changes. The purpose of the current study was to validate Capno-SvO₂ against CO-oximetry during major alterations in oxygen delivery. Furthermore, evaluating fiberoptic SvO₂ for its response to the same challenges. Eleven mechanically ventilated pigs were exposed to oxygen delivery changes: increased inhaled oxygen concentration, hemorrhage, crystalloid and blood transfusion, preload reduction and dobutamine infusion. Capno-SvO₂ and fiberoptic SvO₂ recordings were made in parallel with CO-oximetry. Respiratory quotient, needed for capnodynamic SvO₂, was measured by analysis of mixed expired gases. Agreement of absolute values between CO-oximetry and Capno-SvO₂ and fiberoptic SvO₂ respectively, was assessed using Bland–Altman plots. Ability of Capno- SvO₂ and fiberoptic SvO₂ to detect change compared to CO-oximetry was assessed using concordance analysis. The interventions caused significant hemodynamic variations. Bias between Capno-SvO₂ and CO-oximetry was + 3% points (95% limits of agreements – 7 to + 13). Bias between fiberoptic SvO₂ and CO-oximetry was + 1% point, (95% limits of agreements − 7 to + 9). Concordance rate for Capno-SvO₂ and fiberoptic SvO₂ vs. CO-oximetry was 98% and 93%, respectively. Capno-SvO₂ generates absolute values close to CO-oximetry. The performance of Capno-SvO₂ vs. CO-oximetry was comparable to the performance of fiberoptic SvO₂ vs. CO-oximetry. Capno-SvO₂ appears to be a promising tool for non-invasive SvO₂ monitoring.