Pulse Oximetry
A non-invasive monitoring technique that uses photoplethysmography to measure oxygen saturation of hemoglobin (SpO₂) and pulse rate continuously.
Full Definition
Pulse oximetry is a standard, mandatory monitoring modality for all levels of sedation and general anesthesia in dental settings. The device emits two wavelengths of light through a tissue bed (typically a fingertip or earlobe) and calculates the ratio of oxygenated to total hemoglobin based on differential light absorption. While it provides a real-time SpO₂ reading and heart rate, editors must understand that pulse oximetry has important limitations: it does not measure ventilation (CO₂), and readings may be inaccurate in patients with poor peripheral perfusion, nail polish, or significant motion artifact. In anesthesia records and monitoring checklists, pulse oximetry is listed as a distinct modality from capnography and blood pressure monitoring. The ADA and ASA mandate continuous pulse oximetry for all sedation levels above minimal.
Usage
Usage note: The device is a 'pulse oximeter'; the technique is 'pulse oximetry.' Do not conflate with SpO₂, which is the specific measurement it produces.
In Context
- "Continuous pulse oximetry throughout the procedure revealed a brief SpO₂ nadir of 94% during deep sedation." — Post-procedure anesthesia record
- "The monitoring checklist confirmed that pulse oximetry, capnography, and blood pressure were all functional before induction." — Pre-anesthetic equipment checklist