Systematic review demonstrates limited interchangeability of central and mixed venous oxygen saturation in surgical patients, suggesting the need for caution.
Key Points
The research aims to assess the validity of central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO₂) as a surrogate for mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO₂) in surgical patients.
Systematic search for observational studies reporting ScvO₂ and SvO₂ measurements in surgical patients up to March 31, 2026.
Data extraction and quality assessment using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale by two independent reviewers.
Pooled analyses conducted using random-effects models with supplementary subgroup and sensitivity analyses.
ScvO₂ and SvO₂ were not clinically interchangeable with a pooled mean difference of −0.49% (95% CI, −1.34 to 0.35; I² = 70.3%).
The limits of agreement exceeded the acceptable ±5% threshold, indicating wide variability.
The pooled correlation between ScvO₂ and SvO₂ was 0.72 (5 studies, n = 197; 95% CI 0.57–0.82; I² = 64.3%).