Reliability of transcutaneous monitoring of arterial PO2 in newborn infants.

Blood Po was measured transcutaneously on skin `arterialized' by means of a heated Po electrode. Oxygen diffuses through the relatively thin skin of newborn infants from the outer capillary layer to an electrode fixed to the skin. Arterial changes were registered with approximately a 10-second delay. 41 comparative transcutaneous and arterial Po measurements were performed. Transcutaneous Po values correlated quite well with arterial values within the whole Po range, the correlation being particularly satisfactory in the Po range below 100 mmHg. The method is suitable for long-term monitoring of newborn infants, as it is without risk.