[Usefulness of capnography for monitoring sedoanalgesia: influence of oxygen on the parameters monitored].

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the usefulness of capnography for early detection of respiratory depression during sedoanalgesia procedures in the pediatric emergency department. To assess whether the administration of oxygen during the procedure can modify monitored parameters, thus delaying detection of respiratory depression.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective randomized study was performed on children between 1 year and 16 years who underwent sedoanalgesia to perform diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. They were randomized into two groups (with or without supplemental oxygen). All patients were monitored by visual inspection, pulse-oximetry and non-invasive capnography. Monitoring was initiated prior to drug administration and continued until complete recovery of baseline. The main study variable was respiratory depression defined as apnea, hypoventilation or oxygen desaturation.

RESULTS: Twenty patients were included. Eleven patients were randomized in the supplemental oxygen group. This study showed a statistically significant elevation of EtCO2 levels at 5, 10 and 15min, compared with baseline. No significant change in the SatO2 mean was detected. No statistically significant differences were identified when comparing etCO2 mean and SatO2 mean in both groups. Two cases of respiratory depression were detected early by capnography. There was a statistically significant correlation between etCO2 at 5 and 10min, and the degree of sedation achieved.

CONCLUSIONS: The inclusion of capnography to routine monitoring for adequate sedation procedures could improve safety. Oxygen administration does not appear to modify the parameters monitored.