Comparative Evaluation of Oxygen Therapy Techniques in Anaesthetised Dogs: Face Mask and Flow-By Technique

Abstract

The face mask and the "Flow By" technique were evaluated and compared as oxygen therapy techniques in anaesthetised dogs. Oxygen concentration at the bifurcation of the trachea increased with both techniques with increasing oxygen flow rates. The face mask proved to be a very efficient technique in elevating inspired oxygen concentration (FIO2), while the "Flow By" technique, although significantly less efficient, can also be a useful method under certain conditions. When using the "Flow By" technique, the end of the oxygen line has to be held continuously as close to the nose of the patient as possible. The indications, advantages and disadvantages of both techniques are discussed. The sugg..