Observational study of perioperative Ptcco2 and Spo2 in non-ventilated patients receiving epidural infusion or patient-controlled analgesia using a single earlobe monitor (TOSCA)â€

Ptcco2 recording in patients on PCA-morphine and supplemental oxygen revealed hypercapnia in the presence of normal respiratory rates and Spo2 values. This is recommended as an easy and sensitive monitor of respiratory depression and may have a role in the safe administration of opioid-analgesia.