SvO2 monitoring: limitations and considerations.

While continuous SvO2 monitoring is unquestionably a valuable assessment tool in the evaluation of oxygenation, it alone, does not tell the 'whole story'. It should not be used as a substitute for a comprehensive evaluation of oxygenation, but rather as an integral component in the evaluation process. Used in context with the complete physiological profile, SvO2 is helping to revolutionize our understanding of tissue oxygenation and our related patient management. With the minute-to-minute tracking capabilities that continuous SvO2 monitoring affords us, we wouldn't want to be without it. There are no true 'short-cuts' in Critical Care, but SvO2 monitoring may be the closest thing to it. Errors in its application can be avoided with good understanding of oxygenation physiology and good clinical judgement.