An Algorithmic Approach to Preoxygenation

The patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups (Group TVB and Group PSV) according to a computer-generated randomisation table. In the patients included in Group TVB, the tidal volume breathing was maintained for a further two minutes. Group PSV received inspiratory pressure support of 6 cm H2O for +1 min. At the end of four minutes, patients whose ETO₂ value had not reached a minimum of 90% were randomly divided once more into two groups. One group continued with PSV, while the other was administered 4 cm H₂O PEEP in addition to PSV (Group PSV+PEEP). When adequate preoxygenation was achieved, the duration of preoxygenation, SpO2, end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2), arterial blood pressures and heart rate values were recorded. Any adverse effects such as discomfort or gastric distension were noted.