Modelling O/sub 2/ and CO/sub 2/ dissociation curves of newborn infants

Abstract

In order to study gas exchange and respiratory control system stability in the newborn period, a model of the O/sub 2/ and CO/sub 2/ dissociation curves is developed which incorporates the changes in hemoglobin with age. The model is a modification of Grodin's equations. The dissociation curves generated by the computer model take into account hematocrit, bicarbonate concentration, pH, barometric pressure, the Bohr effect, the Haldane effect, and the effect of postnatal age on hemoglobin type. They provide improved accuracy in modeling gas exchange and respiratory control system stability in infants.<>