Successful pharyngeal pulse oximetry in low perfusion states

Abstract

Purpose: We describe pharyngeal oximetry with the laryngeal mask airway in two patients with low perfusion states where finger oximetry failed.

Clinical features: One patient was a 47-yr-old man with septic shock and the other a 64-yr-old man with multiorgan failure. In both patients, a # 4 laryngeal mask airway with a pediatric pulse oximeter probe was inserted behind the tracheal tube. A good waveform was obtained and oxygen saturation was 0-2% lower than arterial samples.

Conclusion: Pharyngeal oximetry with the laryngeal mask airway is feasible in low perfusion states when finger oximetry fails.