Tool for Monitoring Pediatric O2 Sats Launched
A new tool to monitor ScvO2 continuously in a pediatric population was launched, as described in a press release by Edwards LifeSciences Corporation, the PediaSat Oximetry Catheter. The system was previously used in adult populations. The organization plans to target the product for use in critical care settings, including the intensive care unit and the operating room.
The tool is a central venous catheter that provides ongoing monitoring of oxygen saturation (ScvO2) using fiber optics. The system allows patient’s oxygenation to be continuously monitored over time, including collection of data that details consumption of oxygen and delivery patterns. The catheter is placed with the same approach as is used to implant a central line. Ongoing monitoring ensures that critical changes to systemic oxygen are captured as they occurred.
As well, the effects changes to oxygen saturation manifest differently in the pediatric population than in adults. Moreover, pediatric patients are more likely to destabilize at a faster rate warranting a system that monitors levels continuously.
A number of different iterations of the system are developed to suit the wide range of patients captured within the category of pediatric, including catheters with a double lumen and those with a triple lumen. The catheter ranges in length from 5 to 15cm. Some of the models include an antibacterial coating of heparin.
Continuous monitoring may offer a more attractive alternative than intermittent sampling of levels. Patients are subjected to fewer occurrences of venipuncture, which reduces bruising, blood loss, risk of infection, and trauma to pediatric patients by multiple needlesticks. It can also reduce the risk that patients will require transfusions.
Data indicates that the product reduces both morbidity and mortality among patients with congenital heart disease. In adult patients, the system reduced mortality by over one-third among patients with septic shock who were undergoing early goal directed therapy. In pediatric and neonatal patients being treated for septic shock, use of the PediaSat Oximetry Catheter helps to optimize hemodynamic support.
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August 30, 2007 Related topics: Product Launches, Monitoring, Pediatrics