Volumetric capnometry.

In the era of lung-protective ventilation, ventilation efficiency can be optimized through targeted measurements of the dead space/tidal volume ratio. Capnography, as a graphical representation of expiratory CO2 concentration, is an essential component of bedside monitoring for ventilated patients. Capnography non-invasively and in real time represents CO2 kinetics. In daily routines, it primarily allows for the identification of correct intubation and adjustment of the minute respiratory volume. However, capnography, particularly in its volumetric form, which is not yet widely used in hospitals, can provide much broader and clinically valuable additional information. This includes monitoring and optimizing ventilation, as well as assessing gas exchange. The healthcare team thus obtains clinical parameters for bedside decision-making that, until now, could only be obtained through more complex, invasive, and non-automated procedures.