The Use of Oxygen Consumption and Delivery as Endpoints for Resuscitation in Critically III Patients

OBJECTIVE Oxygen consumption (VO2 I) and delivery (DO2 I) indices have been stated to be superior to conventional parameters as endpoints for resuscitation. However, another interpretation of published data is that inability to increase VO2 I/DO2 I given adequate volume resuscitation reflects inadequate physiologic reserve and poor outcome. DESIGN Fifty-eight critically ill patients were randomized to two groups. In group 1 (27 patients) attempts were made to maintain VO2 I greater than or equal to 150 or DO2 I greater than or equal to 600 mL/min/m. If DO2 I was > 600, no attempt was made to increase VO sub 2 I even if it was