Original Article

Clinical Evaluation of Cardiomet 4000 Continuous On-Line Blood Gas Analyzer

Heart Institute of the Desert, Eisenhower Medical Center, Rancho Mirage, CA

^* Direct communications to: Joseph W. Basha, Jr., C.C.P., Heart Institute of the Desert, 39600 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270.

Abstract

PURPOSE: Clinically evaluate a new, continuous, on-line blood gas analyzer, Cardiomet 4000, for accuracy, safety, user friendliness.

METHOD: 32 patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass were randomly selected. Approximately 105 blood samples were drawn and analyzed by the hospital blood-gas laboratory. The Bentley Gas Stat was used as an on-line reference. The parameters of the C4000 and BGS were recorded simultaneous to the drawing of blood samples. Calibration times and sensor insertion procedures were noted. Lab results were evaluated for bias and precision (B/P). The bias of both in-line systems was subject to a student's t-test analysis for significance.

RESULTS: Significant level= 0.001

Daily cal. time C4000 5 min. Full cal. time 15 min. (apx. once/wk.) Design of C4000 connector allows for sensor insertion and removal during CPB.

CONCLUSION: The C4000 demonstrated a clinically acceptable bias and precision in the measured parameters pH, pCO₂, pO₂ and required minimal calibration and set-up time during daily use. The C4000 stainless steel reinforced gas/ion window design provides a pressure barrier (17PSI) thus: A) allows for sensor calibration verification at any time, B) allows for sensor insertion after onset of CPB in emergency applications, C) eliminates sensor placement as requirement for membrane integrity.