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Physiologic monitors designed for intravascular continuous measurement and display of the partial pressure of blood gases (i.e., carbon dioxide, oxygen) and pH values in the arteries. These monitors are hard-wired to the patient at the bedside. These monitors include a vascular catheter equipped with three detectors that combine an optical fiber with a fluorescent dye sensor (e.g., fluorescent optodes) at its distal tip; three optodes are needed: one sensitive to oxygen pressure (pO2), another sensitive to carbon dioxide pressure (pCO2), and a third sensitive to pH values. Intravascular blood gas/pH monitors also include electronic circuitry, a display, and programmable alarms. They are especially useful in patients with respiratory failure (e.g., obstructive lung disease, severe asthma) and in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension after cardiac surgery. Some monitors may be used during surgical procedures.
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