Proper Partial Pressure of Arterial Oxygen for Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury

Background: The partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) is critical to the outcome of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, it is not clear what range of PaO2 should be maintained to improve patient outcome. The aim of this study was to explore the PaO2 value needed in the acute phase of TBI and provide new evidence for clinical practice. Material/Methods: A total of 153 patients with TBI were enrolled retrospectively. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted on sex, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score on admission, PaO2 within 6 h of admission, oxygenation index, and other factors. The Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) of the patient at discharge was used as an indicator of outcome. The good outcome group had GOS >= 4, and the poor outcome group had GOS <4. Results: The 153 patients were divided into a good outcome group (n=62) and poor outcome group (n=91). There was a significant difference in sex, admission GCS, surgery, airway status, PaO2, and oxygen index within 6 h of admission between the 2 groups. Logistic regression analysis showed that PaO2 <60 mmHg, male sex, and admission GCS score of 3 to 12 were independent risk factors for a poor outcome. Conclusions: Patients with TBI having PaO2 <60 mmHg within 6 h after admission were more likely to have poor outcomes. The upper limit value of PaO2 that affects the outcome of TBI in patients has not been found.