Capnography is a first line monitoring system in mechanically ventilated patients. Volumetric capnography supports noninvasive and breath-by-breath information at the bedside using mainstream CO2 and flow sensors placed at the airways opening. This volume-based capnography provides information of important body functions related to the kinetics of carbon dioxide. Volumetric capnography goes one step forward standard respiratory mechanics and provides a new dimension for monitoring of mechanical ventilation. The article discusses the role of volumetric capnography for the clinical monitoring of mechanical ventilation.
Keywords: Carbon dioxide; Dead space; Gas exchange; PEEP; Pulmonary blood flow; Volumetric capnography.