Transpulmonary thermodilution: advantages and limits

Fig. 1. Haemodynamic variables provided by transpulmonary thermodilution and calibrated pulse contour analysis, with their meaning, utility and normal values (N). ARDS acute respiratory distress syndrome

Fig. 2. Assessment of intrathoracic volume by the PiCCO device. With the VolumeView device, the geometrical analysis of the thermodilution curve directly estimates the global end-diastolic volume. Dt downslope time, MTt mean transit time. For explanation, see the text

Fig. 3. Indication for haemodynamic monitoring in the intensive care unit. A-line arterial line, CV-line central venous line. The choice also depends on team experience