Importance

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Abstract

Cardiac output is measured utilizing a catheter in conjunction with the indicator dilution technique. Non-thermal analyte-containing fluid is used as the injectate. This fluid is biocompatible with and metabolizable within the body of the patient. An analyte concentration sensor is mounted upon the catheter and located downstream within the bloodstream from the port from which the analyte-containing fluid is expressed. Because of the matching of rapid concentration sensor response with an analyte-containing fluid which is metabolizable, the measurement of cardiac output may be carried out as often as about one to three minutes in conjunction with an infusion interval substantially less than the measurement frequency interval. The analyte-containing fluids are selected from a group consisting of ammoniacal fluid, heparin, ethanol, a carbon dioxide releasing fluid, glucose, and anesthesia agent. The system performs in conjunction with a microprocessor-driven controller which automates the measurement procedure and provides a display of cardiac output and various cardiovascular parameters.

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First Claim