PbtO2

PbtO2 refers to Partial Pressure of Oxygen in venous blood. It is a physiological measurement that indicates the amount of oxygen carried by the blood returning to the heart from the body's tissues. Venous blood, having already delivered oxygen to the cells, will have a lower oxygen partial pressure compared to arterial blood. PbtO2 is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) or kilopascals (kPa). It is a key indicator in assessing tissue oxygenation and is often used in critical care settings, such as intensive care units, to monitor patients with conditions affecting oxygen delivery or consumption. Low PbtO2 values can suggest inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues, increased oxygen consumption by the tissues, or impaired oxygen utilization. Conversely, high PbtO2 in venous blood might indicate a shunt or an issue with oxygen extraction by the tissues. The normal range for venous PbtO2 can vary depending on the sampling site (e.g., central venous vs. mixed venous blood) and individual patient factors. It is a crucial component in the evaluation of hemodynamic status and metabolic function.