Episodes of spontaneous desaturations in infants with chronic lung disease at two different levels of oxygenation

The optimal range of pulse oximeter oxygen saturation (Sao 2 ) for infants with chronic lung disease (CLD) has not been well established. We quantified episodes of spontaneous desaturation, at two different ranges of Sao 2 . For 1 hr each, we alternatively administered inspired O 2 concentrations (Fio 2 , necessary to maintain an Sag of 94–96% or 87–91% to 21 patients (mean birth weight, 865 g; gestational age, 27.3 weeks; postnatal age 40.6 days) with CLD (defined by Fio 2 > 0.21 at ≥ days and radiographic evidence). Sao 2 was monitored with the Nellcor N‐200 oximeter and analyzed by a computer program (SatMaster). The percentage of time the infants desaturated to levels of Sao 2 <85 and <80% revealed significantly fewer spontaneous episodes during the hour of higher baseline Sao 2 (P < 0.0002). Comparison of episodes of spontaneous desaturation to Sao 2 < 80 and <85%, lasting 0–15, 16–30, 31–45 sec also showed significant differences between the two levels of Sao 2 . We conclude that when Infants with CLD are maintained at a higher Sao 2 they probably experience fewer episodes of spontaneous desaturations, because of less alveolar hypoxia. We bell that attempts at weaning the Fio 2 should be tempered with the need of maintaining an adequate Sao 2 . Therefore, prolonged monitoring of oxygenation in infants with CLD at different levels of Sao 2 could be helpful during the weaning process. Pediatr Pulmonol. © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.