Effects of normobaric hyperoxia on haemodynamic parameters of healthy full-term parturients

Abstract

Fifteen healthy, full-term women with singleton pregnancies were exposed to an increased FIo2of 0.4 and their haemodynamic responses measured with a non-invasive transthoracic bio-impedance monitor. There was a mean reduction in cardiac index from 3.18 to 3.03 l.min-1.m-2 (4.7%, p = 0.004). The mean indexed systemic vascular resistance increased from 2049 to 2178 dynes.cm-5.m-2 (5.7%, p = 0.005). There were no significant changes in stroke index, heart rate or mean arterial pressure. This study demonstrates that even a moderate increase in inspired oxygen fraction has significant effects on the cardiovascular system of the term parturient. © 2007 The Authors Journal compilation 2007 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.