[Perioperative hyperoxia-More harmful than beneficial?].

BACKGROUND

The ideal perioperative oxygen concentration is controversial and study results are inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

Current knowledge on the beneficial and adverse effects of perioperative hyperoxia.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Narrative review

RESULTS

Perioperative hyperoxia is unlikely to increase the incidence of atelectasis, pulmonary or cardiovascular complications or mortality. Few and small potential beneficial effects, such as reduction of surgical wound infections or postoperative nausea and vomiting have been demonstrated. According to the current state of evidence, it is recommended to avoid perioperative hyperoxia and to aim for normoxia instead.