Transcutaneous PO2 monitoring (tcPO2) in the newborn during apneic spells, convulsions, cardiac catheterizations, and exchange transfusions.

Continuous transcutaneous PO2 recording improves the monitoring of critically ill infants and newborns submitted to invasive procedures such as exchange transfusions or cardiac catheterization. The measurement of tcPO2 in babies with apneic spells or seizures gives a better understanding of these respiratory disorders. It is reasonable to recommend the continuous monitoring of PO2 with a transcutaneous electrode in neonatal intensive care units.