Volumetric Capnography: History, Function and Clinical Uses

Introduction: The volumetric capnography (VCap) is a quick, simple, cheap, and effective test for distal airways.The test is based on the volumetric concentration of expired CO 2 and tidal volume (CV) flow over a single exhalation.Literature Review: The exam makes it possible to observe the curve of expired CO 2 , considering its concentration.These CO 2 curves are plotted, showing the inspired volume point by point, and the dead space volume can be calculated among the elimination of CO 2 with each breath, showing us the different phases of breathing, seen in slopes, from 1 to 3. Discussion: Several authors found valuable data when comparing volumetric capnography with other established tests, such as spirometry.Conclusion: Despite the countless discoveries using capnography, we still need more tests and comparisons in other pathologies to better understand their most diverse peculiarities.Not forgetting that capnography is a complementary exam.We need other tests, such as computed tomography (CT), to make a diagnosis and define an appropriate treatment for subjects.