SCvO2BASE

SCvO2BASE is a clinical parameter representing the baseline central venous oxygen saturation used as a reference point for interpreting current central venous oxygen saturation readings (ScvO2) in critical care and perioperative settings. It is intended to reflect the patient’s customary tissue oxygenation before a resuscitation or optimization protocol is initiated.

In practice, SCvO2BASE is used to calculate the delta ScvO2, the difference between the current ScvO2 and the baseline. This delta informs clinicians about changes in the balance between oxygen delivery and consumption and can guide decisions related to fluid management, transfusion, or inotropic support.

Measurement of SCvO2BASE involves obtaining a central venous blood sample via a central venous catheter and analyzing it with a co-oximeter or blood gas analyzer. ScvO2 is reported as a percentage, typically measured in the mid- to high-70s to low-80s percent range in many adults, though baseline values vary with individual factors such as age, health status, and hemodynamics.

Interpretation of SCvO2BASE must consider limitations: central venous oxygen saturation differs from mixed venous saturation (SvO2); readings can be influenced by hemoglobin level, cardiac output, metabolic rate, regional venous admixture, and sampling timing. SCvO2BASE is not universally standardized and may be defined differently across monitoring protocols and institutions.

See also ScvO2, SvO2, and hemodynamic monitoring for related concepts.

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