Routine Oximetry

Often, advances in medical technology become available on a widespread basis before a controlled scientific experience has accumulated to carefully delineate the indications, uses, and pitfalls of such technology I feel this certainly is the case with pulse oximetry and this issue is partially addressed by the data of Loggan, Kerby and Pingleton (see page 242). The accuracy simplicity and usefulness of pulse oximetry is well known and accepted by most pulmonologists today. The main issue now surfacing is its appropriate use and application. I feel there are basically two issues to be addressed: 1) appropriate scientific application and efficiency, and 2) as always, the medical economics. When one proposes a "new procedure or test" as routine, one would like to justify it by showing an efficient scientific value vs the additional effort or cost.