METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ASSESSING PERFUSION FAILURE IN A PATIENT

摘要

A device for assessing impairment of blood circulation in a patient, such as that in perfusion failure, by measurement of pCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) in the upper digestive and/or respiratory tract of the patient comprises a carbon dioxide sensor (22; 104) introduced into the upper digestive and/or respiratory tract of a patient, without passing the sensor beyond the patient's epiglottis. The carbon dioxide sensor is placed adjacent a mucosal surface, preferably within the patient's mouth or inside the patient's nose. By lack of passage into the throat and esophagus, discomfort is substantially avoided and the potential for injury minimized.