Accuracy of a third (Dolphin Voyager) versus first generation pulse oximeter (Nellcor N-180) in predicting arterial oxygen saturation and pulse rate in the anesthetized dog

In anesthetized dogs with adequate hemodynamic function, both instruments record SaO2 relatively accurately over a wide range of normal saturation values. However, there is an increasing overestimation at SaO2 < 90%, particularly with the Dolphin Voyager, indicating that 3rd generation pulse oximeters may not perform better than older instruments. The 5.4-fold increase in bias with the Dolphin Voyager at SaO2 < 90% stresses the importance of a 93-94% SpO2 threshold to ensure an arterial saturation of ≥90%. In contrast, PR monitoring with both devices is very reliable.